Scott Parker Praises Mikel Arteta’s Tactical Brilliance and Defends Arsenal Playing Style

Burnley boss Scott Parker praises Mikel Arteta’s coaching genius and defends Arsenal disciplined approach ahead of their Premier League clash.

Scott Parker has come to Mikel Arteta’s defense, dismissing criticism of Arsenal’s playing style and calling the Gunners a “well-oiled and functional team.” Ahead of Burnley’s meeting with the Premier League leaders, Scott Parker praises Arteta’s coaching intelligence and Arsenal tactical evolution this season.

Arsenal currently lead the Premier League by four points, solidifying their position as early favorites for a first league title since 2004. Yet, their recent dominance has drawn criticism from some pundits who claim that Arteta’s side relies too heavily on set-pieces.

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Of Arsenal’s 16 league goals this season, 11 have come from dead-ball situations, with just five from open play. Critics argue this undermines Arsenal’s attacking flair, but Parker sees that as a misunderstanding of modern football.

“I don’t see it like that,” Parker said. “They’re an unbelievably well-coached team with structure, purpose, and balance.”

Speaking in his pre-match press conference, Parker praised Arsenal’s tactical discipline, crediting Arteta for molding a side capable of controlling matches in multiple ways. He pointed out that effective coaching isn’t about constant attacking flair but about achieving results with consistency and adaptability.

“Arsenal play with control,” Parker added. “You can see the work that’s gone into every detail. That’s not luck—it’s coaching.”

Arsenal’s Set-Piece Strength

Set-piece coach Nicolas Jover has driven much of Arsenal’s success this season, using his drills to transform the team into one of Europe’s most dangerous sides from dead-ball situations. Their precision, timing, and aerial presence have allowed them to break down compact defenses that would otherwise frustrate them.

Parker admitted Burnley have been preparing to nullify Arsenal’s set-piece threat but warned that the Gunners remain equally dangerous in open play. “You can’t just focus on corners or free-kicks,” he said. “They have quality everywhere.”

Mikel Arteta, meanwhile, continues to defend his approach. After a stalemate against Manchester City, where he was accused of playing “with the handbrake on,” Arteta reiterated that his tactics are rooted in strategy, not caution.

“We play to win in the best way possible,” Arteta said. “Sometimes that means control, sometimes risk—but always purpose.

Furthermore, as Arsenal prepares to face Burnley at Turf Moor, Parker’s respectful remarks add a fresh perspective to the debate over Arsenal’s evolution. Rather than joining the critics, the Burnley manager has highlighted what many within football already see—Arteta’s Arsenal are not just winning games; they’re redefining modern efficiency.

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