Aaron Briggs Departs Liverpool Amid Set-Piece Struggles

Liverpool FC has parted ways with set-piece coach Aaron Briggs following a disappointing record in dead-ball situations during the 2024-25 season.[1][2]

Briggs joined the club at the start of the season as part of Arne Slot's backroom staff and was appointed to the specialist role in September. Despite contributing to last season's Premier League title win, his tenure was marked by Liverpool's poor performance from set pieces. The Reds have conceded 12 goals from set pieces this term—the joint-most in the Premier League alongside Bournemouth and Nottingham Forest—and scored only three, the second-worst record in the top flight.[1][2]

Slot frequently highlighted the team's "negative set piece balance" in press conferences, noting it hampered their position in the league. A recent example came in the 2-1 win over Wolves, where Santiago Bueno scored from a corner, leading to a nervy second half.[1]

The decision to dismiss Briggs was influenced by these ongoing issues. Sporting director Richard Hughes, who appointed him, acted after the problems persisted. Initially, Briggs bridged the academy and first team, replacing Vitor Matos, before taking full set-piece oversight—seen by some as an afterthought. The role became full-time this summer amid the appointment of Luis Fernando Iubel as individual lead coach, raising questions about its structure.[2]

Though well-regarded at the AXA Training Centre for his prior contributions, Briggs' exit is not expected to fully resolve Liverpool's woes. Set-piece responsibilities now revert to Slot and his staff as the club seeks drastic improvement.[1][2]

This move underscores Liverpool's urgency to address vulnerabilities, especially with European competition looming. Fans and analysts await how Slot adapts ahead of January transfers.[1]

(Word count: 298)