Unai Emery revealed that he did not shake hands with any members of the Arsenal coaching staff following Aston Villa’s 1-0 victory since Mikel Arteta was not present.
Following a recent FA charge, the Gunners boss was barred from the touchline for Saturday night’s match at Villa Park, and he could only watch from the executive boxes above as his side bowed to an early first-half strike from midfielder John McGinn.
Emery was Arsenal’s manager for 18 months before being fired in November 2019 and replaced by Arteta. He revealed after the game that he didn’t shake hands with Arsenal’s coaching staff since Arteta left the stands right before the final whistle, but that there was no animosity between the two benches.
Emery, who instead revelled in the postgame festivities with fans, was questioned about handshakes and replied, “No, because Arteta wasn’t on the bench.” I extended my hand to the workers inside since they were present when I was, but only to the folks I coached and worked with.”
“There was nothing personal,” he continued. It was due to the fact that it was not Arteta. Arsenal and Arteta are two clubs I hold in high regard. I have a lot of respect for the people who work there. I have nothing bad to say about them.”