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Arsenal have brought in throw-in specialist Thomas Gronnemark, previously used by Jürgen Klopp at Liverpool, as Mikel Arteta’s side push for major honours this season.
Arsenal’s pursuit of silverware this season has extended beyond the transfer market, with the club appointing specialist coach Thomas Gronnemark, a figure who previously played a role in Liverpool’s Premier League triumph under Jürgen Klopp.
The Danish coach, a former footballer and athlete, once held a record for the longest throw-in and has since built a reputation as one of football’s leading experts in this highly specific area of the game. His methods were embraced by Klopp during Liverpool’s title-winning campaign, a season in which marginal gains played a decisive role.
From record-holder to elite specialist
After stepping away from competitive football, Gronnemark focused on developing structured approaches to throw-ins, turning a previously overlooked restart into a potential attacking weapon. His work quickly gained attention across Europe, leading to collaborations with clubs such as Brentford, Borussia Dortmund, Ajax, Midtjylland, Union Saint-Gilloise, as well as the Japan national team.
His growing profile even led to coverage in the German press, where Klopp reportedly first encountered his work while on holiday in Tenerife. Intrigued by the concept of a dedicated throw-in coach, Klopp made contact and soon invited Gronnemark to Liverpool’s training sessions.
Arteta looks for marginal gains
Now, Mikel Arteta has taken a similar step at Arsenal, bringing Gronnemark into the coaching setup as the club chase the highest honours. The Dane has already begun working on the training ground, contributing to a team widely regarded as one of the most effective in the world from set-piece situations, though throw-ins remain an area with room for improvement.
Arteta’s decision reflects Arsenal’s broader strategy of seeking small but significant advantages, an approach that has underpinned their rise into genuine title contention.
Focus shifts to FA Cup test
Arsenal’s immediate attention turns to domestic cup action, with the London side travelling to face Portsmouth in the FA Cup. On paper, it represents a favourable fixture, with Portsmouth struggling near the bottom of the Championship standings.
Whether Gronnemark’s influence can once again contribute to a title-winning season remains to be seen, but Arsenal’s willingness to innovate suggests they are leaving little to chance.