Unai Emery has revealed why he did not shake hands with any of the Arsenal coaching staff after Aston Villa’s 1-0 win.
The Villans edged past the Gunners on Saturday night to continue their remarkable run and go third in the Premier League table. It was made even sweeter for Villa boss Emery given that he previously managed Arsenal, before he was sacked just a year-and-a-half into his tenure.
His opposite number Mikel Arteta had to watch from the stands due to a suspension as his Arsenal side failed to grasp an opportunity to go top of the table. And there were murmurings at full-time about why Emery did not shake hands with any of the Arsenal staff.
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But Emery explained his reason behind ignoring the Arsenal bench by insisting there is no animosity between the two sides. Having soaked up the celebrations with the fans instead, he stated he had actually shaken hands with some of the Arsenal personnel in the tunnel but did not feel the need to go over because of Arteta’s absence.
He said in his post-match interview: “No, because Arteta wasn't on the bench. I gave my hand to the workers inside because they were there when I was there, but only with the people I coached with and who worked with me.
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"There was nothing personal. It was because it wasn't Arteta. I respect a lot Arsenal and Arteta. I respect a lot the workers there. I have nothing negative against them."
Villa’s huge victory over title hopefuls Arsenal comes just days after they dominated three-time reigning Premier League champions Manchester City. Their stunning home form has seen them steadily climb the table, and they now find themselves just two points off leaders Liverpool.
But goal-scorer John McGinn refused to entertain any talk of Villa pursuing the title just yet. The Scot said: "I'm banning the T-word. It's game week 16 so there's a long way to go. We respect everyone around us who has been in this position for years. We're newbies – if we can keep it up, we'll see."
Emery’s side take on Brentford next Sunday in an away fixture. The busy festive period sees them also face Sheffield United, Manchester United and Burnley before the new year.
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