Bayer Leverkusen coach Kasper Hjulmand has questioned the legality of Arsenal set-piece tactics ahead of their Champions League round-of-16 clash.

Kasper Hjulmand has raised concerns over the set-piece tactics used by Arsenal ahead of their Champions League round-of-16 first-leg encounter with Bayer Leverkusen in Germany.

Speaking during a press conference, Hjulmand questioned whether some of the blocking movements used during set pieces should be allowed under the current rules of the game. He suggested that certain off-the-ball actions could be pushing the boundaries of what is permitted.

The Danish coach admitted that such tactics have become increasingly common in modern football. However, he expressed uncertainty about whether players should be allowed to block opponents when the ball is not directly involved in the play.

Arsenal have enjoyed considerable success from set pieces this season, which has played a key role in their rise to the top of the Premier League table. Their effectiveness from corners has been particularly notable, with the team equalling the league’s single-season record for goals from corners after scoring twice in a 2-1 win over Chelsea.

The Gunners have also been dominant in European competition, winning all eight of their Champions League group-stage matches to finish top of the expanded 36-team table. Their set-piece routines have been widely praised for their creativity and precision.

Hjulmand acknowledged that Leverkusen themselves occasionally use similar tactics, but noted that Arsenal appear to have refined the approach. According to him, the North London side dedicate significant time to perfecting their routines and have become one of the most dangerous teams from dead-ball situations.

Arsenal’s methods have drawn criticism from several figures in football, including Fabian Hürzeler and former striker Chris Sutton. However, manager Mikel Arteta has defended his team’s approach, even joking that he is frustrated they do not score even more goals from set pieces.