Arsenal hires ex-Liverpool coach despite offer to rejoin Arne Slot backroom team

Thomas Gronnemark, Liverpool's former throw-in coach, is now working with Arsenal despite previously saying he would return to Anfield if asked

Thomas Gronnemark speaks to the players of Liverpool during a training session (Image: Getty Images)

Arsenal, already the Premier League's set-piece masters, is looking to further strengthen its prowess with the addition of a former Liverpool coach to their team.

Thomas Gronnemark, previously Liverpool's throw-in coach, is now said to be lending his expertise to the Gunners as they aim for their first Premier League title since 2004 under boss Mikel Arteta.

This season, Arsenal has netted 14 goals from set-pieces in the Premier League, with 12 resulting from corner-kicks alone, thanks to the efforts of their set-piece coach Nicolas Jover. However, it is now aiming to improve their throw-in record, and according to The Times, have begun working with Gronnemark.

The Danish coach, who also works with Brentford, has visited Arsenal's training ground to share his knowledge after being hired on a consultancy basis.

Gronnemark worked with Liverpool from 2018 to 2023, and his contributions played a part in Jurgen Klopp's side clinching the Champions League in 2019 and the Premier League in 2020.

He recently hinted at a potential return to Anfield, especially given Arne Slot's team's struggles with defending set-pieces this season.

Thomas Gronnemark was headhunted by Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp(Image: )

"Liverpool are always welcome to call me," he told RG. "The only way I wouldn't say yes to Liverpool is if I were already coaching another top Premier League team that's actually a direct competitor.

"I'm not talking about a team like Brentford, and as long as I'm not full-time at another club, as long as my contract gives me the green light, I'd say yes.

"Of course, with my history with the club, my connection with the fans, and people who are writing to me every day on social media and thanking me for my time with the team, I'd say yes in most cases."

However, his current role at Arsenal might compel Gronnemark to reconsider such an offer.

Slot has consistently expressed dissatisfaction with Liverpool's performance from set-pieces this season, a sentiment that culminated in the exit of specialist coach Aaron Briggs at the end of last month.