Mikel Arteta has shrugged off Dimitar Berbatov’s comparison of Arsenal to 2010s Stoke City, insisting that the remark is a “compliment” to his team. The Arsenal manager’s response comes after the former Manchester United striker likened the Gunners to the famously physical Stoke side of the Premier League, known for their prowess at set pieces under Tony Pulis.
Arsenal’s love for scoring from set pieces has been a feature of their game under Arteta, with the Gunners netting twice from corners in their recent 2-0 win over Manchester United, bringing their tally of goals from set pieces to 22 in the last two seasons. The two goals against United only further highlighted their effectiveness in this area, earning them the nickname “Corner Kings” in some circles.
Berbatov’s comments, made in a critical tone, drew comparisons to Stoke’s style of play, which was built around towering centre-backs, long throws, and a direct, physical approach to the game. However, Arteta was unfazed by the jibe and took it as a positive reflection on his team’s tactical approach.
“I understood very well what [Dimitar] Berbatov said,” Arteta responded. “It was said in the best possible way. We take it as a big compliment. I think Stoke were so good at that [set pieces], yeah.”
Asked about the “Corner Kings” moniker, Arteta continued with his usual ambition: “We want to be the kings of everything. Set pieces, the best in the world. High press, the best in the world. In open spaces, the best in the world. The best atmosphere in the stadium and the best at everything.”
Arteta was keen to highlight the transformation Arsenal have undergone under his stewardship, noting how criticism in the past from accusations of being too soft or not winning big games away has been turned around. “Before it was that we didn’t score enough, we were soft at defending, we didn’t have mentality, we weren’t physical enough, we didn’t beat big teams away from home for 17 years, 20 years, 22 years,” Arteta reflected. “Now, we want to be the best at everything. We want to have the best academy, be the best at player development, recruit the best players, best coaches. That’s the aim.”
The Gunners’ style of play has continued to spark debate, with some critics questioning Arsenal’s physicality and focus on set pieces. Even Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim recently accused Gabriel Martinelli and Bukayo Saka of playing for corners, a claim Arteta firmly rejected. The Spanish coach insisted that his wingers were simply “exploiting weaknesses” in opposition defenses, rather than deliberately seeking corners.
Arsenal’s rise under Arteta continues to gather momentum, and with their set-piece dominance a key feature of their play, it seems they’ll be happy to embrace their new “Corner Kings” label as they aim to challenge for the title this season.
