Premier League's tactical shift could be on the wane, with set-piece goals showing signs of reversal.
The Premier League has seen a sudden surge in goals scored from set-plays, including throw-ins and corners, but the trend may not last forever. According to recent data, 18.7% of all Premier League goals this season have come from set-plays, a proportion that is significantly higher than in previous years.
However, experts point out that there is no clear pattern to the trend, and it's likely to be a case of regression to the mean. In other words, if teams aren't creating chances from set-plays consistently, they're probably just doing them wrong. Furthermore, as Pep Guardiola recently noted, the packed modern calendar means that precise planning required for his preferred style has become impossible.
On the other hand, some teams have taken a more pragmatic approach and are now focusing on planning and executing set-pieces effectively. Arsenal, for example, have scored seven goals from corners this season, with 44% of their total goals coming from set-plays.
While it's possible that this trend could persist into next season, many experts believe that the game is due for a shift back towards more fluid and dynamic play. With the emphasis on physicality and pace, midfielders are being pushed to adapt to new roles and styles of play.
The International Football Association Board has even taken notice, considering a 30-second limit on taking a throw-in, but it's likely that defenders will find ways to clear throws in their own favor.
Ultimately, football is a game of constant evolution, and what may be the wave of the future today could become yesterday's news tomorrow.
The Premier League has seen a sudden surge in goals scored from set-plays, including throw-ins and corners, but the trend may not last forever. According to recent data, 18.7% of all Premier League goals this season have come from set-plays, a proportion that is significantly higher than in previous years.
However, experts point out that there is no clear pattern to the trend, and it's likely to be a case of regression to the mean. In other words, if teams aren't creating chances from set-plays consistently, they're probably just doing them wrong. Furthermore, as Pep Guardiola recently noted, the packed modern calendar means that precise planning required for his preferred style has become impossible.
On the other hand, some teams have taken a more pragmatic approach and are now focusing on planning and executing set-pieces effectively. Arsenal, for example, have scored seven goals from corners this season, with 44% of their total goals coming from set-plays.
While it's possible that this trend could persist into next season, many experts believe that the game is due for a shift back towards more fluid and dynamic play. With the emphasis on physicality and pace, midfielders are being pushed to adapt to new roles and styles of play.
The International Football Association Board has even taken notice, considering a 30-second limit on taking a throw-in, but it's likely that defenders will find ways to clear throws in their own favor.
Ultimately, football is a game of constant evolution, and what may be the wave of the future today could become yesterday's news tomorrow.