The Brazilian international who switched from St James’ Park to north London in a big-money deal this summer has discovered that his new manager operates under different principles when it comes to dead-ball situations. While the midfielder established a reputation as a reliable source from corners and free kicks during his time on Tyneside, his opportunities at his new club appear to be limited for the time being.
The 28-year-old newcomer acknowledged that adapting to Arsenal’s carefully constructed set piece systems will require considerable effort. Training sessions devoted specifically to these situations occur frequently, with the player still acclimatising to the tactical requirements of his new employers. When questioned about whether the manager had permitted him to deliver corners, his response came with a knowing grin indicating that this privilege has not yet been granted.
During his previous spell on the northeast, he developed into one of the division’s most threatening specialists from set piece situations, even managing to find the net directly from a corner kick in a victory over Burnley. However, Arsenal’s approach to these scenarios operates on an entirely different level.
The north London outfit have invested significant time refining sophisticated routines for both corners and free kicks, establishing themselves among the global leaders in set piece efficiency. Last season alone, they accumulated 25 Premier League goals from such situations excluding penalties, a figure unmatched by any rival in the competition. Furthermore, a substantial portion of Declan Rice’s creative output for the club originated from these dead-ball scenarios.
For the South American international, mastering these intricate patterns clearly demands patience before potentially assuming responsibility in this department.
He featured in the season-opening Community Shield encounter, contributing to a comprehensive victory over Manchester City that secured the traditional curtain-raiser trophy. Nevertheless, he was absent from the matchday group for the subsequent league fixture against Coventry.
The manager had previously clarified that a minor physical issue sustained during training necessitated caution. With the player lacking a proper pre-season preparation and having only a handful of days to familiarise himself with the setup before the Community Shield, the medical staff deemed it prudent to manage his workload carefully. The transition involves absorbing numerous unfamiliar elements, requiring a measured approach.
Since his arrival at the beginning of August, supporters have eagerly anticipated witnessing his partnership with Rice in the centre of the pitch. The player himself appears equally enthusiastic, having encountered the England international as an opponent numerous times. His assessment of Rice highlighted the midfielder’s exceptional all-round abilities, combining technical prowess with combative defensive qualities that create a formidable presence. Confronting such a player proved challenging, and now the opportunity to collaborate rather than compete presents itself, with hopes pinned on achieving considerable accomplishments together.