23 days before Arsenal, Carlo Ancelotti alerted: the Gunners’ unbeatable tactics exposed

With just over three weeks remaining until Real Madrid faces Arsenal in the Champions League quarter-finals, Carlo Ancelotti has received an urgent warning about a key tactical weapon in Mikel Arteta’s arsenal: the Gunners’ deadly proficiency from set-pieces. Arsenal’s ability to convert corners into goals has been a game-changer in their title challenge, and it is a threat Madrid must neutralize if they hope to progress.

This season has been a rollercoaster for Real Madrid. Despite battling injuries, controversial refereeing decisions, and fluctuating performances, they remain in contention for multiple trophies. However, the Champions League remains their priority, and Arsenal presents a significant obstacle on the road to Wembley.

One of Arsenal’s biggest strengths under Arteta has been their well-rehearsed set-piece strategy. The London club has developed an almost surgical precision from corner kicks, making them one of the most dangerous teams in Europe in dead-ball situations. This efficiency has been key to their success in the Premier League and Champions League campaigns.

Arsenal’s tactical evolution in this area has been masterminded by their set-piece specialist, an assistant coach who has meticulously drilled the squad in attacking corners and free kicks. Since 2021, the Gunners have scored an astonishing 66 goals from corners, a testament to their preparation and execution.

A recent example of their prowess came in their Premier League encounter against Chelsea. In the 20th minute, a perfectly executed corner saw Arsenal break the deadlock, underlining their ability to convert such opportunities into decisive goals. Premier League teams have struggled to counter these routines, proving how effective they have become.

The strategy revolves around key players such as William Saliba, who plays a disruptive role by positioning himself close to the goalkeeper, limiting their movement. Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka deliver pinpoint crosses, while Gabriel Magalhães and Kai Havertz emerge as the primary targets for headers.

Against Chelsea, this very approach paid off again, with Merino nodding in the winner from a corner. Despite the apparent simplicity of their method, Arsenal’s ability to mix up their deliveries and movements has made them unpredictable and difficult to stop.

For Ancelotti, countering this threat will be a crucial part of Real Madrid’s game plan. Their recent vulnerabilities in aerial duels, especially against teams like Real Betis, indicate that defensive adjustments are necessary to prevent Arsenal from capitalizing on set-pieces.

Real Madrid’s backline, led by Antonio Rüdiger and Raúl Asencio, must be fully alert to Arsenal’s aerial threat. Positional awareness, physical dominance, and clear communication will be vital in ensuring Madrid does not fall victim to these routines.

Additionally, Madrid’s defensive midfielders must disrupt Arsenal’s ability to deliver quality crosses. Cutting off supply from wingers and playmakers before they can execute their set-piece plays will be just as important as defending them inside the box.

Thibaut Courtois will also play a decisive role. The Belgian goalkeeper, renowned for his shot-stopping ability and command of his area, will need to dominate aerial duels, anticipate crosses, and organize his defenders effectively. His leadership will be essential in navigating the high-pressure moments that Arsenal’s set-piece prowess will inevitably create.

Fitness and squad rotation will also be crucial factors in Madrid’s preparation. The upcoming international break offers an opportunity for key players to recover but also poses a risk of fatigue or injuries. Ancelotti must manage his squad carefully to ensure peak performance levels for the first leg at the Emirates Stadium.

Mental resilience will be just as important as tactical preparation. Arsenal’s confidence is soaring after eliminating Manchester City and Atlético Madrid in the knockout rounds, making them one of the most formidable teams left in the competition. However, Real Madrid’s experience in high-stakes Champions League matches gives them an advantage in navigating tense encounters.

Ancelotti might look to minimize Arsenal’s set-piece opportunities by maintaining discipline in defense and avoiding unnecessary fouls in dangerous areas. Limiting Arsenal’s corners and free kicks could significantly reduce the Gunners’ chances of finding the net.

Madrid also has their own set-piece weapons. Jude Bellingham, Rüdiger, and Joselu are all capable of making an impact in the air, and Arsenal’s defense has shown vulnerabilities against physical forwards. Ancelotti will undoubtedly seek to exploit this weakness when his team has attacking set-piece opportunities.

This quarter-final promises to be a tactical showdown, pitting Arsenal’s structured, well-drilled approach against Real Madrid’s adaptability and experience. The battle between Arteta’s precision and Ancelotti’s tactical flexibility could define the outcome of the tie.

With the first leg set for April 8 at the Emirates Stadium, the countdown has begun. Whether Madrid can successfully neutralize Arsenal’s set-piece dominance will be a defining factor in this much-anticipated clash. One thing is certain—this encounter has all the ingredients for a Champions League classic.