Carrick Slams Arsenal’s Corner Tactics as ‘Unbalanced’

Manchester United interim manager Michael Carrick has launched a strong critique of Arsenal’s corner-kick routines, insisting that the tactics have gone too far and are damaging the balance of the game.

‘It wasn’t too long ago you couldn’t put a hand on anyone,’ Carrick said. ‘Now, putting so many bodies together has made more teams copy it. As a game, it doesn’t feel like we’ve got the balance right.’

Arsenal’s set-piece strategies have been widely debated in recent months, with managers such as Arne Slot and Pep Guardiola weighing in on their effectiveness.

While the routines have delivered goals and success, Carrick believes they undermine the spirit of fair competition and force opponents into chaotic defensive situations.

‘In the meantime, you have to deal with what’s in front of you, he added, acknowledging the need to adapt but stressing that the game feels increasingly distorted by such approaches.

Carrick’s comments came as he prepared United for their trip to St James’ Park to face Newcastle United.

The Red Devils have not won there since October 2020 and have lost their last three visits, but Carrick remains focused on securing Champions League qualification.

He emphasized the importance of staying grounded, living in the moment, and maintaining consistency, but his sharp words about Arsenal’s corner tactics underline a growing unease among managers about the direction of set-piece play in the Premier League.