Unai Emery has addressed the moment that caught attention after Aston Villa’s defeat to Arsenal, explaining why he did not shake hands with Mikel Arteta at full-time. While the two managers greeted each other before kick-off, there was no post-match exchange following Arsenal’s dominant 4–1 victory.
According to Emery, the situation was simply down to timing and routine rather than any personal issue.
The loss was a significant setback for Unai Emery and Aston Villa, who came into the match on an impressive run of 11 consecutive victories. A win would have taken Emery’s side level on points with Arsenal at the top of the Premier League table.
Instead, Arsenal ran riot, scoring four goals before Ollie Watkins netted a late stoppage-time consolation. For Emery, the result ended Villa’s momentum and highlighted Arsenal’s title credentials.
Unai Emery Clarifies Post-Match Tunnel Walk
After the final whistle, Mikel Arteta turned toward the Arsenal bench to celebrate with his coaching staff, a routine gesture he often makes after wins. Unai Emery said he waited briefly but chose not to delay further.
“It is simple,” Unai Emery explained.
“My routine is quick. I shake hands and then go with my players and coaches to the dressing room. I was waiting, but he was celebrating with his staff, so I decided to go inside. It is no problem.”
Speaking briefly to Sky Sports, Unai Emery added:
“I cannot wait. It was cold.”
Unai Emery Plays Down Any Controversy
Despite the optics, Emery was clear that there was no tension involved. Arteta appeared momentarily confused on the pitch, looking toward the tunnel before continuing with post-match duties.
When asked about the incident, Arteta dismissed the idea of any disagreement, a stance that aligned with Unai Emery’s explanation that the moment was being overanalyzed.
Unai Emery Reflects on Title Race Impact
The defeat leaves Emery’s Aston Villa six points behind Arsenal, while Manchester City sit five points back with a game in hand. The result strengthened Arsenal’s grip on the title race and slowed Villa’s push at the top.
It was also only the third time Mikel Arteta has beaten a side managed by Unai Emery in nine meetings, offering Arsenal some revenge after their earlier loss at Villa Park this month.
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