Arsenal has begun collaborating with throw-in specialist Thomas Gronnemark as the Premier League leaders aim to enhance their set-piece effectiveness. The Gunners have achieved notable success this season, scoring 14 goals from set-pieces, the highest in the league. However, they have yet to capitalize on opportunities created via throw-ins.
Gronnamark will be joining Arsenal on a part-time basis, bringing with him significant experience from his previous role under Jurgen Klopp at Liverpool from 2018 to 2023, along with consultancy work at Brentford. Notably, Brentford has excelled in scoring from throw-in situations, with nine goals achieved since the start of last season—more than any other Premier League team. In contrast, Arsenal remains one of only five teams without a goal from throw-ins during that period.
This season, Declan Rice has been appointed as Arsenal’s primary long-throw taker, highlighting the club’s intent to make better use of such opportunities by launching throws into their opponents’ penalty area. Analysis shows that last season saw 20 goals scored from throw-ins, while the current campaign has already seen 25.
According to Gronnemark, who spoke to BBC Sport, throw-ins are often underestimated in football as an integral part of the game. He noted that during his tenure at Liverpool, possession rates from throw-ins surged from 45.4% to 68.4%, propelling the team from 18th to 1st in the league for throwing possession. Gronnemark believes that professional players should be trained to maximize their throwing capabilities, arguing that effective throw-ins can significantly influence a match outcome.
Emphasizing the importance for teams, Gronnemark remarked, “A focus on throw-ins can save the life of small clubs, as a technique to survive. But at the top of the league, it can help with a more fluent style of play.” With these insights, Arsenal’s investment in Gronnemark could prove pivotal, enhancing their set-piece tactics and overall performance as they strive for success in the Premier League.