Liverpool’s Set-Piece Mastery: How Aaron Briggs Shaped a Victory Over AC Milan

Liverpool’s commanding 3-1 win over AC Milan at the San Siro wasn’t just a product of individual brilliance but a showcase of well-drilled set-piece routines. Aaron Briggs, the man behind the scenes responsible for this transformation, has quickly become a vital figure in Liverpool’s coaching staff. His methods are already paying dividends, and Tuesday’s win was a clear example of the value he brings.

In the ever-evolving world of football tactics, set-pieces remain an area where matches can be won or lost, and Liverpool have found a new maestro to lead this crucial aspect of their game.

Aaron Briggs: Liverpool’s Set-Piece Innovator

Aaron Briggs joined Liverpool’s coaching setup in July, filling a gap left by Vitor Matos. Initially brought in as the first-team development coach, his role has evolved significantly. Today, Briggs is the man behind the meticulous planning and execution of Liverpool’s set-pieces.

Though the position of first-team set-piece coach was posted on LinkedIn shortly after Jurgen Klopp’s farewell at Anfield, the role remains officially vacant. However, Briggs has effectively taken up these responsibilities, working closely with analysts to exploit opponents’ weaknesses.

Before joining Klopp’s team, Briggs had carved out a reputation working alongside Pedro Marques at City Football Group. His impressive CV, with stints at Manchester City, Monaco, and Wolfsburg, highlighted his expertise in performance analysis and tactical coaching. Marques, now Liverpool’s director of football development, played a pivotal role in bringing Briggs to Merseyside.

Tuesday’s game at San Siro provided the perfect example of Briggs’ methods in action. Liverpool capitalised on AC Milan’s vulnerabilities, especially in set-piece situations, and the strategy proved crucial to their victory.

Analysing Milan’s Weaknesses

Ahead of their Champions League clash, Liverpool’s coaching team, led by Briggs, pinpointed a critical flaw in AC Milan’s defensive setup. Milan goalkeeper Mike Maignan’s hesitance in coming off his line from set-pieces was identified as an opportunity to exploit. Liverpool’s strategy was to deliver balls into the six-yard box, where Maignan’s indecision and Milan’s static defending would leave them vulnerable to Liverpool’s aerial prowess.

The results were evident. Liverpool’s first two goals came directly from set-pieces, with Ibrahima Konate and Virgil van Dijk both towering above Milan’s defenders to score. Trent Alexander-Arnold’s expertly floated free-kick found Konate, who outmuscled Fikayo Tomori to head home. Moments later, Kostas Tsimikas delivered a pinpoint corner for Van Dijk, who darted to the near post to nod in Liverpool’s second, leaving Maignan stranded.

Liverpool’s attention to detail in this regard was no accident. The extensive planning, spearheaded by Briggs and Liverpool’s analysts, was vital to outmanoeuvring Milan.

As one of the club’s key analysts, James French, had done much of the groundwork in preparing for Milan. On match day, Liverpool’s analyst trio—Dan Spearritt, Joel Bonner, and Jansen Moreno—could be seen celebrating in the stands as the fruits of their labour came to life on the pitch.

Set-Piece Excellence: The Key to Liverpool’s Success

The value of set-pieces in modern football cannot be overstated, and Liverpool are a team who understand this all too well. The appointment of Briggs signals a renewed focus on capitalising on these opportunities.

Briggs’ background in performance analysis allows him to combine tactical knowledge with data-driven insights. As Klopp’s side becomes more dangerous from set-pieces, we can expect a noticeable increase in their goal output from dead-ball situations.

Konate and Van Dijk’s goals on Tuesday were their first in months, despite their aerial strength. Konate hadn’t scored since April 2022, and Van Dijk’s last goal came in the Carabao Cup final against Chelsea in February. Both players have the physical attributes to be consistent threats from set-pieces, and with Briggs’ guidance, they can realise this potential.

Liverpool’s Dutch manager acknowledged this post-match: “We were disappointed about getting eight corner kicks and not scoring against Nottingham Forest, but we were very close. We felt with all the work we put in on set pieces, that at some moment we should get the reward.”

This commitment to improvement paid off handsomely in Milan, and Klopp’s satisfaction was palpable.

Briggs’ Role in Liverpool’s Future Success

Liverpool’s dominant win at San Siro wasn’t just a testament to individual performances, but to the systems and processes put in place by their coaching staff. Aaron Briggs has brought fresh ideas to the team, particularly in set-piece situations, and his influence is beginning to shine through.

One of the standout performers in the match was Cody Gakpo, whose pace and power on the left flank caused Milan endless problems. His assist for Dominik Szoboszlai’s third goal capped a fine night for Liverpool’s attack, but it was the set-pieces that laid the foundations for victory.

Gakpo was full of praise for Liverpool’s set-piece work after the match, stating: “We have to thank our centre-backs for two great headers. We work on set-pieces before every game, and we’re very happy it worked out. Every player wants to play, and I got my moment. I really wanted to show myself.”

As Liverpool continue their quest for silverware, Briggs’ role behind the scenes will only grow in importance. With the level of analysis and tactical nous now present in the club, particularly in the set-piece department, Liverpool are positioning themselves as a force to be reckoned with in Europe.

Moving Forward

Tuesday’s result was a turning point after a disappointing defeat to Nottingham Forest. The win not only restored optimism at Anfield but also showcased Liverpool’s tactical evolution under Briggs. As the team heads into the next phase of the season, expect set-pieces to play an even bigger role in Liverpool’s pursuit of success.

Briggs’ contribution, along with the tireless efforts of the club’s analysts, has already made a significant impact. It is now clear that this team, with its renewed focus on detail, is ready to take on the best Europe has to offer.

In the words of Cody Gakpo, “We stayed calm and focused.” Calm, focused, and thanks to Aaron Briggs, more dangerous than ever before from set-pieces.