Aston Villa’s manager, Unai Emery, clarified that he didn’t exchange handshakes with any members of the Arsenal coaching team following their 1-0 victory on Saturday night. Emery attributed this to the absence of Mikel Arteta, who was serving a touchline ban during the match. Despite the lack of handshakes and Arteta’s early departure from the stands, Emery emphasized that there were no issues or animosity between the two clubs.
Having spent 18 months as the Arsenal manager before being dismissed in November 2019, Emery expressed respect for Arsenal and Arteta. He explained that he greeted the workers inside the stadium, who were there during his tenure, but refrained from handshakes with the coaching staff he had previously worked with. Emery, basking in the post-match celebrations with Villa fans, reiterated that his actions were not personal and that he holds no negative feelings toward Arsenal or its staff.
Regarding speculation about Aston Villa’s title aspirations, Emery remained cautious. He suggested postponing such discussions until later in the season, possibly around game 30 to 32. Despite being within striking distance of the top spot, Emery emphasized the need to maintain their current position in the top four before entertaining thoughts of a title challenge.
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Match-winner John McGinn echoed Emery’s sentiment, downplaying talks of a title chase. McGinn, who scored his sixth goal of the season, stated that they are taking it one game at a time and emphasized the long road ahead in the season. He jokingly mentioned “banning the T-word” and acknowledged the team’s status as newcomers in such a competitive position.