Arne Slot and Virgil van Dijk Made Feelings Clear on Liverpool Set Pieces Before Aaron Briggs Exit

Liverpool, December 2025 – In a revealing insight into Anfield's tactical evolution, head coach Arne Slot and captain Virgil van Dijk openly expressed their dissatisfaction with the club's set-piece performance prior to the departure of set-piece coach Aaron Briggs. The Dutch duo's candid feedback, sources reveal, played a pivotal role in the club's decision to part ways with Briggs, signaling a strategic overhaul aimed at bolstering Liverpool's dead-ball prowess.

Briggs, who joined Liverpool in 2023 from Manchester City, was tasked with elevating the Reds' set-piece execution. Despite some progress, the team struggled in key metrics during the 2024/25 season. Liverpool ranked mid-table in Premier League corners converted and free-kick goals, a stark contrast to rivals like Arsenal, who dominated via set plays under specialist Nicolas Jover.

"We need to be more ruthless from set pieces. It's an area where we can gain a real edge," Van Dijk reportedly told club staff in a mid-season review. Slot echoed this, emphasizing data-driven improvements: "Virgil and I agree – our headers from corners must improve. We're leaving points on the table."

The breakthrough came after a 2-1 loss to Manchester City in November 2025, where Liverpool failed to capitalize on six corners. Internal analysis highlighted poor delivery accuracy and marking lapses. Slot, known for his meticulous approach from Feyenoord days, demanded changes. Van Dijk, leveraging his aerial dominance, pushed for specialized training emphasizing zonal vs. man-marking hybrids.

Briggs' exit was mutual, with the coach moving to a European mid-tier club. Liverpool swiftly appointed ex-Brighton analyst Gianni Bruno as interim specialist, already implementing Slot's vision: dynamic routines with decoy runs and short-corner variations. Early drills show promise, with Van Dijk scoring twice in a recent session.

This episode underscores Slot's authoritative reign and Van Dijk's leadership, positioning Liverpool as set-piece contenders in the 2026 title race. Fans eagerly await matches where dead balls become decisive weapons.

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