In a strategic move to bolster their Premier League title ambitions, Arsenal have secured the services of renowned throw-in specialist Thomas Gronnemark. The Danish coach, famed for his previous work at Liverpool, joins the North London club in a consultancy role.
Gronnemark's Proven Track Record
The 50-year-old expert arrives at the Emirates Stadium following a highly successful three-season period with Brentford. Under his guidance, Brentford scored more goals from throw-ins than any other Premier League side since the start of last season, netting nine times from such situations. This tally was more than double that of any other team in the competition.
Gronnemark is no stranger to the English top flight's pressure cooker. He previously served as Liverpool's throw-in specialist under manager Jurgen Klopp between 2018 and 2023. His tenure at Anfield coincided with a trophy-laden era for the Reds. In his first season, Liverpool's possession retention from throw-ins rocketed from 18th to first in the league. The club subsequently won the Champions League that campaign and secured their first league title in 30 years the following season.
Complementing Arsenal's Set-Piece Prowess
Arsenal's decision to hire Gronnemark is a clear attempt to find marginal gains in their quest for a first Premier League crown in 22 years. Manager Mikel Arteta's side already boasts one of the league's most feared set-piece units, masterminded by coach Nicolas Jover.
The statistics are impressive: Arsenal scored more goals from corners than any other team last season. This campaign, they again lead the division in dead-ball efficiency, having scored 14 goals from set-pieces (excluding penalties), one more than Manchester United.
However, there is one area of clear weakness. Arsenal are one of just eight Premier League teams yet to score from a throw-in this season. Clubs like Brentford, Crystal Palace, Burnley, and Sunderland have each managed three goals from throw-ins, highlighting an opportunity for improvement that Gronnemark is expected to address.
The Final Push for Premier League Glory
Gronnemark, a former Guinness World Record holder for the longest throw-in, brings a wealth of global experience. Beyond Liverpool and Brentford, he has consulted for European giants like Borussia Dortmund and Ajax, as well as FC Midtjylland, Union Saint-Gilloise, and Japan's JEF United.
His appointment comes at a crucial juncture. Arsenal currently sit top of the Premier League table, holding a six-point lead over Manchester City and Aston Villa. With every detail counting in a tense title race, Arteta is leaving no stone unturned. Integrating Gronnemark's specialised knowledge aims to transform throw-ins from a mere restart into a genuine attacking weapon, potentially providing the extra edge needed to end the club's long wait for domestic supremacy.
