Mikel Arteta has moved to give Arsenal's Premier League title challenge an extra dimension by appointing a specialist throw-in coach.
Gronnemark Confirms Arsenal Role
Thomas Gronnemark, a renowned expert in set-piece throws, has publicly confirmed he is now working with the Gunners. The 50-year-old Danish coach announced the news on social media platform X, formerly Twitter, stating: "It's out. Yes, I coach Arsenal." He specified his work covers "Long, Fast and Clever throw-in" techniques and shared a photo from outside the club's Sobha Realty Training Centre.
This strategic hire follows reports last week that Arsenal had sought Gronnemark's services. His arrival underscores the increasing tactical focus on long throws in the modern game, a trend gaining momentum in the Premier League.
A Proven Track Record
Gronnemark is no stranger to English football or title pursuits. He previously worked with Liverpool under Jurgen Klopp, joining in 2018 and contributing to the Reds' Premier League triumph in the 2019/20 season. He has also consulted for other top European clubs including Ajax, Borussia Dortmund, and Brentford.
Recalling his unexpected move to Anfield, Gronnemark shared a memorable anecdote. He received a call from Klopp while on a family outing. "I was visiting a chocolate shop with my family; I saw the +44 and thought it was an English guy trying to sell me pens," he said. The message was from Klopp, who had read about him in a German newspaper while on holiday. "I tried to call him back... I took the call on my way home in the car, where I drove directly into a grass field when he called," Gronnemark admitted.
Building on Set-Piece Excellence
Arsenal's decision to bring in Gronnemark aligns with their established strength from dead-ball situations. The club's set-piece coach, Nicolas Jover, has earned significant praise for his work, with Arsenal leading the league this season having scored 14 goals from set-pieces.
Arteta will hope Gronnemark can have a similar transformative impact on the team's throw-in routines. With every marginal gain crucial in a tight title race, improving this often-overlooked aspect of play could provide a valuable advantage. Arsenal currently sit six points clear of nearest rivals Manchester City at the summit.
The team's immediate focus returns to the Premier League this Saturday with a trip to face Nottingham Forest at the City Ground. This follows a midweek Carabao Cup semi-final first leg against Chelsea and comes after Manchester City's earlier Saturday fixture at Manchester United.
