Image credit: Getty Images
Arsenal’s rise to the top of the Premier League table in the 2025-26 campaign has been driven by a clear and calculated tactical identity under Mikel Arteta.
The Gunners have combined structural discipline with a relentless focus on maximising every possible route to goal, turning efficiency into a defining feature of their title charge.
While sections of the footballing public have criticised the north London club for being overly pragmatic and heavily reliant on set pieces, the results have spoken for themselves, with Arsenal firmly in contention for domestic silverware.
Arteta’s side have embraced marginal gains in pursuit of success. Alongside their organised defensive shape and fluid attacking patterns in open play, Arsenal have excelled from dead-ball situations, emerging as one of the division’s most dangerous teams from corners and wide free-kicks.
READ MORE: Chelsea launch £61m bid for Brazilian star linked with Arsenal
Their set-piece output places them among the league leaders, alongside rivals such as Manchester United. In a campaign where fine margins have defined the title race, Arsenal’s ability to capitalise on these moments has proved decisive.
Though some critics argue that the flair historically associated with Arsenal has been replaced by functional precision, the club’s consistency suggests adaptability may be the key to lifting the trophy.
Brentford defender Michael Kayode (Image credit: Getty Images)
With one eye on sustaining that momentum, Arsenal have already begun planning for the future. Reports indicate the club have submitted an initial enquiry regarding a potential summer move for Michael Kayode, the 21-year-old right-back currently impressing at Brentford. Although no formal offer has yet been tabled, Kayode is understood to be a priority target as part of Arteta’s long-term defensive planning.
CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE NOW ARSENAL WHATSAPP GROUP CHAT NOW!
A significant factor behind Arsenal’s interest is Kayode’s exceptional long-throwing ability. The Italian defender has recorded an average throw-in distance of 33.2 metres in the Premier League this season, the longest in the division, with a maximum measured throw of 38.52 metres. He has also generated more shots directly from throw-ins than any other player in the league, underlining his unique attacking contribution.
At Brentford, Kayode’s long throws have effectively functioned as set pieces, routinely forcing opposition defences to treat them like corners. For an Arsenal side already thriving on dead-ball situations, such a weapon would add another dimension to their tactical arsenal.
Beyond his throwing prowess, Kayode offers pace, defensive reliability and attacking support from full-back, attributes that align with Arteta’s demands for the modern role.
Brentford are unlikely to sanction a sale without a substantial fee, but Arsenal’s early enquiry signals clear intent as they look to blend present success with forward-thinking recruitment.
NEXT ARTICLE: Arsenal close in on agreement with top summer transfer target