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PSG has a special training session for the match against Arsenal. Photo: Reuters . |
According to British media, the French team has adopted rugby-style drills to cope with set pieces, a specialty of the Premier League representatives.
In recent training sessions, the PSG coaching staff has been using rugby-style impact pads to simulate intense tackles in the penalty area. The team's goalkeepers have to constantly collide with each other, enduring strong impacts when rushing out to catch the ball or block shots from corner kicks.
The changes to the training plan show that coach Luis Enrique is particularly interested in Arsenal's ability to set up, press, and capitalize on set pieces. Mikel Arteta's team has scored 21 goals from set pieces in the Premier League this season and is considered one of the most dangerous clubs in Europe in that respect.
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PSG goalkeepers practice collisions with mats. |
However, Arsenal have also been controversial for their approach to tackling in the penalty area. In the match against West Ham on May 10th, many Arsenal players were criticized for repeatedly pulling and locking opponents' arms during set pieces.
The most controversial moment came in injury time when Callum Wilson's goal was disallowed after referee Chris Kavanagh determined that Pablo had obstructed goalkeeper David Raya as he rushed out to catch the ball.
This decision sparked intense debate in England, especially as it could directly impact both the title race and the relegation battle. However, the reality is that the use of foul play and aggressive tackling in set-piece situations is becoming increasingly common in the Premier League.
PSG isn't the only team that has tried to adapt. Previously, Brighton's manager Fabian Hurzeler even hired an MMA fighter to train his players on how to defend against tackles and escape marking.
For Enrique, learning from rugby is nothing new. The 56-year-old coach has applied the mindset of that sport to football many times. He often chooses to observe the first half from the stands to get a clearer tactical perspective, and encourages his players to use long passes to get the ball out wide in order to gain positional advantage and organize pressing.
If PSG beat Arsenal, they will make history by winning two consecutive Champions League titles.
Source: https://znews.vn/bai-tap-la-cua-psg-de-dau-arsenal-post1651000.html
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