Lee Dixon explains the technical reason behind this common practice

Arsenal legend Lee Dixon has shed light on why footballers avoid taking corners from inside the painted arc. Instead, they typically place the ball just outside the arc before initiating the corner kick. This may be confusing to some fans, but Dixon has a practical explanation for this strategy.

Dixon, who was commentating for Amazon Prime during Chelsea's recent Premier League match against Crystal Palace, revealed that the paint used to mark the arc is actually hard. Consequently, when the ball is fully placed on it, it sits in an awkward position. By allowing a fraction of the ball to be on the line, players find it easier to execute the corner kick.

Additionally, the rules stipulate that opposing players must remain at least 10 yards away from the arc until the ball is in play. If the ball is placed outside the arc or if an opponent is deemed to be too close, the corner is usually retaken.

This insight from Dixon provides a glimpse into the technical intricacies of the game and explains why corners are taken the way they are. Football fans can now appreciate the reasoning behind this common practice on the field.