Liverpool Extend Their Lead as Arsenal Stumble Again
It was another fantastic weekend for Liverpool, as the Reds continued their winning streak while Arsenal dropped more points. The pressure appears to be getting to Mikel Arteta, whose frustration was on full display during his post-match interview with Sky Sports.
Reporter Patrick Davison found himself in a tense exchange as Arteta repeatedly interrupted him with short, dismissive responses. The former Everton midfielder then abruptly walked away, only to be stopped for a final question:
“I have to ask you about the title race because it’s 15 points now—is it too much?”
Arteta’s response? A curt “No, thank you,” before storming off.
Arteta Frustrated Over Title Race Questions
The 42-year-old seemed particularly agitated by questions about whether Arsenal should have signed a striker in January and if their title hopes were slipping away.
Despite Liverpool’s commanding 16-point lead after defeating Southampton, Arsenal had an opportunity to cut it to just seven points before the Reds played another league game—if they had won their next three matches.
Pundit Izzy Christiansen even backed them to do so, insisting the title race was still alive. However, Arsenal faltered at the first hurdle, once again failing to capitalize.
With the gap now at 15 points, even if Arsenal win their upcoming matches against Chelsea and Fulham, the maximum they can reduce it to is nine—an increasingly uphill battle.
Arsenal Fail to Apply Pressure on Liverpool
There’s nothing wrong with a manager showing faith in his team. Even former Arsenal star Bacary Sagna was hesitant to rule them out entirely. However, Arteta’s frustration with a fairly reasonable question suggests he may be struggling to accept reality.
Rather than adjusting Arsenal’s ambitions towards securing a top-four finish and competing in Europe, the former Manchester City assistant seemed personally offended at the idea that his side might have lost their shot at the title.
From Liverpool’s perspective, it’s entertaining to watch—but it paints a picture of a manager whose arrogance outweighs his achievements.
For someone with little silverware to his name, Arteta’s response only fuels the perception that he is unwilling to acknowledge his team’s shortcomings.