Aston Villa manager Unai Emery has clarified why a post-match handshake with Mikel Arteta didn’t happen following Villa’s 4-1 defeat at the Emirates on Tuesday.
Despite a scoreless first half, Arsenal dominated the second period with goals from Gabriel Magalhaes, Martin Zubimendi, Leandro Trossard, and Gabriel Jesus, extending their Premier League lead to five points.
Ollie Watkins provided a late consolation goal for the visitors.Addressing the missed handshake, Emery who managed Arsenal for 18 months following the Wenger era explained that he didn’t want to interrupt Arteta’s celebrations.
“I usually shake hands quickly and leave,” Emery said. “Arteta was celebrating with his staff, and I couldn’t wait around. There’s no problem; I simply headed to the dressing room.”