Liverpool manager Arne Slot has expressed concern over the increasing emphasis on set pieces in the Premier League, admitting that it is taking away the joy from watching games. Speaking ahead of Liverpool’s clash with Wolverhampton Wanderers, Slot highlighted how corners and dead-ball situations have shifted the dynamics of English football.
“Do I like it? My football heart doesn’t like it. Now most of the games I see in the Premier League are not, for me, a joy to watch,” Slot said.
The trend has been particularly visible recently, with league leaders Arsenal scoring both goals from corners in their 2-1 victory over Chelsea, while Liverpool netted three times from corner kicks in their 5-2 win against West Ham United.
Despite his reservations, Slot acknowledged that set pieces add to the league’s competitiveness, offering smaller clubs a chance to challenge stronger opponents. He also contrasted officiating standards in England with those in the Eredivisie, noting that physical play on goalkeepers is often tolerated in the Premier League.
“Maybe in five or 10 years’ time things will change again, but I wouldn’t be surprised if you went to an under-16s game somewhere, Sunday League football, and if you see teams completely being focused on set pieces. That’s the new reality,” Slot added.
Liverpool will face Wolverhampton twice this week — first in the Premier League and then in the FA Cup — before travelling to take on Galatasaray in the UEFA Champions League on March 10. Slot also confirmed that midfielder Florian Wirtz remains sidelined with a back injury but is expected to return next week.
