Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has refused to admit defeat in the Premier League title race, despite his team trailing leaders Liverpool by a staggering 15 points. The Gunners’ hopes took another hit on Sunday after a 1-1 draw against Manchester United at Old Trafford.
Arsenal’s Uphill Battle for the Title
Arsenal currently sits 15 points behind Liverpool, who lead the table with just nine games remaining. With the Gunners having played 28 matches one fewer than Liverpool, Arne Slot’s side needs only 16 points from their remaining fixtures to clinch the title. When asked if Arsenal’s title challenge was effectively over, Arteta remained defiant.
“I don’t want to say that,” Arteta stated. “But today, the frustration is that we didn’t win our game. We know the urgency, and we’re obligated to win every single match. Without that, we have no chance.”
Recent Form Raising Concerns
Arsenal have now dropped seven points in their last three matches, raising serious doubts about their ability to keep up with Liverpool. When questioned about his team’s struggles, Arteta pointed to a lack of clinical finishing.
“Our efficiency in the final third wasn’t good enough,” he admitted. “Coming to Old Trafford and performing the way we did was superb, but if you don’t capitalize on your chances, overturning results here is incredibly tough.”
Arteta Walks Out of Interview
In a tense post-match interview with Sky Sports, Arteta appeared to grow frustrated when asked directly if the title race was over. Instead of answering, the Spaniard abruptly walked away, fueling speculation about his mindset.
Bruno Fernandes’ Controversial Free-Kick
The game saw its fair share of drama, with United captain Bruno Fernandes scoring just before halftime from a free-kick. Declan Rice equalized for Arsenal in the 74th minute, ensuring the Gunners salvaged a point. However, controversy arose when referee Anthony Taylor ordered Arsenal’s defensive wall to stand 11.2 yards back more than the standard 10 yards, giving Fernandes an easier angle for his shot.
Reacting to the incident, Arteta said: “I was told about it after the game. If Bruno capitalized on that, then he was simply cleverer than us and the referee.”
What’s Next for Arsenal?
United now sit on 34 points with 10 games remaining, while Arsenal must regroup quickly if they hope to mount a late-season comeback. Their recent form suggests an uphill battle, but Arteta remains steadfast in his belief that the fight isn’t over just yet.
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