Arteta Walks Out Of Interview as Title Challenge Slips Away
Mikel Arteta’s frustration was evident as he left his post-match interview early following Arsenal’s 1-1 draw with Manchester United. A night that could have reignited the Gunners’ title challenge instead exposed their attacking frailties once more, leaving them 15 points adrift of league leaders Liverpool.
Another Missed Opportunity in the Title Race
Arsenal dominated the first half but lacked the cutting edge to turn possession into goals. Their failure to capitalise on control was punished when Bruno Fernandes curled in a clever free-kick to put United ahead. Declan Rice responded after the break with a well-taken finish, but it was another night of unfulfilled potential for Arteta’s side.
Despite thrashing PSV Eindhoven 7-1 in the Champions League just days earlier, Arsenal once again struggled to break down a Premier League opponent. The ongoing debate over their lack of a recognised striker continues to gather momentum, with Arsenal scoring fewer goals than Liverpool, Tottenham, Manchester City, and Chelsea this season (52).
Arteta Dismisses Striker Concerns
Questions surrounding Arsenal’s attacking deficiencies are nothing new, but Arteta was in no mood to entertain the topic. When asked by Sky Sports’ Patrick Davison whether the absence of a clinical striker was to blame, Arteta responded bluntly:
“No. It’s not about that,” before walking away.
Davison pressed further, highlighting the 15-point gap to Liverpool:
“Mikel, one more [question]? I have to ask you about the title race because it’s 15 points now.”
Mikel Arteta hurried out of his post-match interview when asked if the 15-point gap to Liverpool was “too much”. pic.twitter.com/VSs9uQWjdg
— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) March 9, 2025
Arteta simply replied “no” before exiting, dismissing Davison’s follow-up of “Is it too much?” with a curt “thanks.”
Pressure Mounts as Arsenal’s Attack Misfires
With Arsenal now playing catch-up, the pressure is mounting on Arteta to find a solution to their attacking struggles. Whether he acknowledges it or not, the lack of a prolific goalscorer remains a glaring issue that could derail their campaign further.
