Chelsea right-back Reece James has delivered a honest reaction after Arsenal’s 2-1 Premier League win over the Blues at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday.
The Gunners regained their five-point lead over Manchester City at the top of the standings after a hard-fought victory over the Blues.
William Saliba broke the deadlock from a corner for the Gunners, but Chelsea equalised through an own goal, moments before the interval.
Arsenal eventually grabbed the lead through another set-piece. Jurrien Timber scored from a Declan Rice corner to secure another derby win.
Speaking after the game, James was asked about the importance of set-pieces. The Blues captain said that the vast majority of goals in 2026 have come from such situations.
The right-back added that Arsenal are ‘one of the leaders’ in the world at set-pieces and they are ‘difficult to stop’ from finding the back of the net.
He told Sky Sports (via BBC Sport): “This is football now in 2026, 90% of goals are probably set piece. They [Arsenal] are one of the leaders in the world [at set-pieces].
“They are difficult to stop, they scored two today. Disappointed. But we scored one, we had another chance to score another, but it wasn’t meant to be today.”
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Arsenal registered a dominant 4-1 win over Tottenham Hotspur on the road last weekend, but they were far from their scintillating best against the Blues yesterday.
The Gunners commanded only 42 percent of possession, and the visitors seemed the better team during the final 30 minutes despite Pedro Neto being sent off.
Thankfully, David Raya was superb between the sticks. The Spaniard made several world-class saves, including one in stoppage time to save the club’s blushes.
The victory has ensured Arsenal keep their five-point lead over the Cityzens, but Pep Guardiola’s side still have a game in hand against Crystal Palace, yet to be rescheduled.
Arsenal’s immediate focus will turn to Wednesday’s league trip to Brighton & Hove Albion. Man City will be in action against Nottingham Forest at home on the same night.
The Gunners have already beaten the Seagulls twice in the Carabao Cup and Premier League this term, and will be aiming to replicate the feat at the AmEx Stadium.