Arsenal have shown significant improvement in their attacking play this season, scoring more goals from open play after facing criticism for relying heavily on set pieces in previous campaigns.Over the past two seasons, the Gunners became particularly effective at scoring from dead ball situations. However, their approach attracted criticism from rival supporters and neutrals, with some even accusing them of making football less entertaining because of their reliance on set pieces.This campaign has brought a different dimension to Arsenal’s attack. Mikel Arteta’s side have produced some impressive performances in open play while remaining competitive in the Premier League, with only Manchester City performing better so far.Their ability to create and score goals through different attacking approaches is an encouraging development. Arsenal will hope to maintain that progress as they compete across multiple competitions, knowing that a varied attack can make them more difficult for opponents to contain.Arsenal demonstrate greater attacking varietyArsenal’s recent performances suggest they are no longer as dependent on set pieces as they were in previous seasons. Their attacking flow has improved, allowing them to create more opportunities during open play and produce goals that reflect the quality within the squad.The development is particularly notable because the team previously faced repeated criticism over how they scored. Rival fans often questioned their approach, but Arsenal’s improved attacking performances have helped answer some of those concerns.For Arteta, however, the distinction between goals scored from open play and those created from set pieces is less important than the outcome. The manager wants his players to remain effective in every situation and believes having several ways to score gives his team an advantage.(Photo by Julian Finney/Getty Images)Arteta responds to criticism of set piecesSpeaking via Arsenal Media, Arteta addressed the criticism Arsenal received for their reliance on set pieces and stressed the importance of being able to score in different ways.“Look what you just said, [we got] criticism for scoring [set-piece] goals! I don’t know what level we are at right now, but the team is showing a great attacking flow, we scored some beautiful goals.“The value of the goals is exactly the same, so I think we have to be a team that is able to score in many, many ways. That will make it harder for the opponent.”_____________________________________________________________________________________________ADMIN COMMENTSo here are some simple rules which I must insist commenters follow….You agree not to give any personal abuse to other Arsenal fans. Everyone is allowed to hold their own opinions even if you disagree with them. It COSTS NOTHING TO BE POLITE TO OTHER ARSENAL FANS.CALLING ALL ARSENAL FANS! Anyone who would like to contribute an Article or Video opinion piece on JustArsenal, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us through this link…More Stories / Latest NewsArteta happy Arsenal score from open play but it doesn’t matter to him17 October 2026, 14:00Arsenal and Tottenham fighting for Christos Tzolis former teammate17 October 2026, 13:00Arteta says Arsenal will try to end their goal drought at the City Ground17 October 2026, 12:00The post Arteta happy Arsenal score from open play but it doesn’t matter to him appeared first on Just Arsenal News.