Answer:
Metaphase
Explanation:
The metaphase stage of the cell cycle precedes the anaphase and the telophase stages. During this stage, the metaphase plate is formed and chromosomes align along this plate which also represents the equator of the cell.
After lining up, mitotic spindles attach to each chromosome at the centromere. Shortening of the spindles results in separation of sister chromatids of the same chromosome and their eventual migration to the opposite poles of the cell.
Hence, if the mitotic spindle refuses to attach to chromosomes, cells would most likely be arrested in the metaphase stage and will never be able to proceed beyond it.
