Arsenal is preparing to use a powerful, albeit off-pitch, asset when they face Paris Saint Germain (PSG) in Tuesday’s Champions League matchup. Nicolas Jover, the Gunners’ set-piece specialist, has turned Arsenal into one of Europe’s most feared teams from dead-ball situations.
Jover, who joined Arsenal in 2021 after working alongside Mikel Arteta at Manchester City, has masterminded strategies that have led to 44 goals from set-pieces since his arrival, with 25 of those coming in the Premier League. His innovative tactics, such as pressuring goalkeepers while Gabriel Magalhães times his runs, have been vital to Arsenal’s success, including crucial goals against Manchester City and Tottenham this season.
In stark contrast, PSG under Luis Enrique has not emphasized set-piece training, leaving them vulnerable in defending corners and free-kicks. This tactical oversight could play into Arsenal’s hands, as they look to capitalize on PSG’s weaknesses and continue their dominance in set-piece situations. As Arteta himself noted, Jover’s impact is undeniable, making Arsenal a dangerous threat on every dead-ball opportunity.
