Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta abruptly ended a post-match interview with Sky Sports following his team’s 1-1 draw against Manchester United on Sunday, a result that leaves the Gunners 15 points adrift of Premier League leaders Liverpool.
Mikel Arteta Storms Off Mid-Interview as Arsenal’s Title Hopes Fade
The match at Old Trafford saw Arsenal struggle to assert dominance, with Manchester United taking the lead just before halftime through a Bruno Fernandes free-kick.
Arsenal’s goalkeeper, David Raya, was kept busy throughout, making several crucial saves to keep his team in contention.
It wasn’t until the 74th minute that Arsenal found an equalizer, with Declan Rice striking from just inside the box.
Despite this resurgence, the Gunners couldn’t capitalize further, and Raya’s late heroics ensured they left with a point.
In his initial comments, Arteta expressed frustration over his team’s inability to convert opportunities, particularly in the first half.
He noted, “We had some unbelievable situations, but we didn’t get the last shot or the last pass. We didn’t capitalize, we rushed the game.”
He also criticized certain defensive lapses, stating, “How we conceded [chances] in certain moments was not acceptable.”
The interview took a tense turn when Sky Sports’ Patrick Davison inquired about Arsenal’s diminishing title hopes, given the significant gap to Liverpool.
Arteta, visibly agitated, responded curtly, “I don’t want to say that,” before walking away, ending the interview abruptly.
This incident has sparked varied reactions among fans and pundits. Some supporters found Arteta’s abrupt departure amusing, while others criticized him for reacting poorly under pressure.
The episode underscores the mounting pressure on Arteta as Arsenal’s title aspirations wane.
Looking ahead, Arsenal will shift their focus to the Champions League, aiming to protect their 7-1 aggregate lead in the second leg of their last-16 tie against PSV on Wednesday.
They will then return to Premier League action, hosting Chelsea next Sunday, seeking to regain momentum in a season that has seen their title ambitions falter.
