Thomas Tuchel is replicating Arsenal's proven set-piece approach for England's World Cup campaign. Arsenal provided more players to England's squad than any other club, and their success with dead-ball situations—19 goals from corner kicks in the Premier League last season—has convinced Tuchel to prioritize this tactical focus in training since arriving in the United States.
Declan Rice, England's designated corner-taker, is among Europe's most adept set-piece specialists following his success with Arsenal. Chelsea's Reece James, expected to start at right-back, is another key specialist known to Tuchel from their time at Chelsea. Bukayo Saka's dead-ball prowess is also valued, despite ongoing tendonitis concerns about his availability.
England's squad composition reinforces the tactical advantage. Of the 10 outfield players who started against Costa Rica, only James and Elliot Anderson stand below 6 feet tall, providing significant aerial superiority from corners and free-kicks.
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