“Defiant Mikel Arteta abruptly exits post-match interview, refusing to concede title hopes.”

Liverpool enjoyed another successful weekend, extending their winning streak while Arsenal continued to drop points, with signs that the pressure is affecting Mikel Arteta.

Speaking to Sky Sports after the match, reporter Patrick Davison found himself repeatedly interrupted by the Spaniard, who gave brief and dismissive responses.

The former Everton midfielder then abruptly ended the interview and 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 simply replied, “No, thank you,” before storming off.

The 42-year-old appeared visibly frustrated by questions about Arsenal’s decision not to sign a striker in January and whether the title race was slipping away.

Despite Liverpool’s commanding 16-point lead following their win over Southampton, Arsenal had the chance to cut the gap to seven before Liverpool’s next Premier League match—if they won their next three games.

Pundit Izzy Christiansen backed the Gunners to stay in the race, but they immediately faltered, dropping points at the first hurdle. Now, with the gap at 15 points, the best Arsenal can hope for is reducing it to nine—provided they can overcome Chelsea and Fulham, which is no small task.

Once again, Arsenal squandered an opportunity to put pressure on Liverpool. While there’s nothing wrong with a manager believing in his team—even Bacary Sagna was hesitant to rule Arsenal out—Arteta’s refusal to acknowledge reality seems peculiar.

Rather than adjusting expectations to focus on securing a top-four finish and European success, the former Manchester City assistant appears offended by the suggestion that the title may be out of reach.

While entertaining for Liverpool fans, Arteta’s reaction paints the picture of an arrogant and deluded manager whose achievements don’t quite justify his self-assurance.