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Welcome to the Nutmeg, each week, you can expect: Exclusive previews of major football events – Spotlight features on top football creators – In-depth analysis of trending football culture.
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THE NEW STOKE CITY

Since the start of last season, Arsenal have netted 22 goals from corners, leading not only the Premier League in this category, but all of Europe. They hold a looming 5 goal lead over the second-best, Bayer Leverkusen. Over 25% of their total goals have come from dead-ball situations this year.

This transformation didn't happen overnight. Nicolas Jover, who joined Arsenal in 2021, has been pivotal in this evolution. His meticulous analysis of opponents' defensive setups allows the team to exploit vulnerabilities effectively.

Jover's innovative routines have turned set pieces into a significant threat for Arsenal's adversaries.

Services from Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka have been instrumental in this success, each contributing seven assists from set plays since the beginning of last season. But it’s no surprise to see this kind of success when the Gooners have built an arsenal of aerial threats. William Saliba, Kai Havertz, Declan Rice, Riccardo Calafiori, Mikel Merino, Gabriel, and more are all over 6 foot.

Their prowess was on full display in a recent 2-0 victory over Manchester United, where both goals originated from corners. Defenders Jurrien Timber and William Saliba capitalized on well-executed deliveries, underscoring the team's set-piece efficiency.

Arsenal's dominance in this area has even drawn comparisons to the 'old Stoke City' under Tony Pulis, known for their set-piece strength including Peter Crouch. Pulis himself acknowledged the Gunners' effectiveness, noting that "Arsenal are attacking the spaces in between the zonal markers and everyone is on the move."

Although they most likely won’t actually reach peak Stoke City numbers, 43% of goals coming from set pieces, Arsenal are making corners fun to watch again.

MESSI’S RETURN?

Recently, during Barça's 125th anniversary gala, Messi couldn't attend in person due to prior commitments but sent a heartfelt video message. He expressed his deep connection to the club, stating, "I miss the club a lot, the city, the people, the affection." He also hinted at a future return, saying, "I intend to return because that city and that club will always be a part of me."

However, Messi's current stint with Inter Miami complicates things. His contract with the MLS club runs until December 2025, and reports suggest he plans to honor it fully. Interestingly, there are rumors that Messi might finish his career at his boyhood club, Newell's Old Boys, in Argentina.

Barcelona's financial woes add another layer of complexity. The club's economic struggles were a significant factor in Messi's departure in 2021, and these issues persist, making a potential return challenging.

Despite these hurdles, Barça President Joan Laporta remains optimistic. He's been vocal about his desire to bring Messi back, emphasizing the club's commitment to making it happen.

EUROPE’S LAZIEST WIN STREAK

Everyone’s favorite competition has returned—the FIFA Club World Cup! It’s the only opportunity to see the Seattle Sounders take on Atletico Madrid or the Mamelodi Sundowns go at Dortmund. Really, this tournament serves as a reminder as to how European football really is the pinnacle of the sport. A non-European has won only once since 2007.

Europe has a history of not taking the tournament very seriously, despite their obvious affinity for winning. Who can blame them, though? With a schedule so packed that you only get three weeks off, another tournament seems like a burden. It’s the perfect time to give the youngsters a chance against the best of other countries and regions.

In a continued attempt to grow soccer in North America, this year’s competition will be held throughout the USA. Naturally, there will be some drama involved. The tournament is mostly composed of clubs that have won their domestic league or tournament championship. Despite not winning the MLS, Inter Miami managed to make the list of entries.

In the end, having more high-level football in the US is a good thing, and it gives chances to smaller countries to make their mark against top-caliber teams.

Other news you shouldn’t let slip through your legs:

🎯What’s a salary cap? Looks like David Beckham’s Inter Miami is aiming high again, reportedly targeting Kevin De Bruyne as their next superstar signing. The Belgian maestro could join in 2025 when his Manchester City contract ends, giving him a chance to join the power team in Miami.

🏠Homebodies. If your league standing was only based off of your home matches, 11th place Brentford would be at the top of the Premier League table. After matchweek 14, Brentford have a league-leading 19 points while at home, edging out Liverpool by one point. The downfall is that they’ve only earned one point on the road…

🧤2 more seconds. After trials  in two leagues, we’re going to see a change to the never-followed 6 second rule for goalkeepers. Goalkeepers will now have 8 seconds total–after three seconds, the ref will hold up his hand and count down from five. We’re expected to see a full implementation in 2026/2027.

Leading 5-a-side soccer facilities in North America 🇺🇸 🇨🇦

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