Unai Emery leaves Mikel Arteta visibly disappointed with full-time snub after Arsenal thrashing

Mikel Arteta was left in disbelief after Arsenal’s win over Aston Villa as he was snubbed at full-time by Unai Emery.

The Gunners thrashed title challengers Villa 4-1 at the Emirates on Tuesday night before the awkward moment on the touchline.

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As the full-time whistle blew, footage showed visiting manager Emery instantly turning away from the pitch and walking off.

The Villa boss shook the hand of the fourth official and took a quick look over to Arteta and his coaching staff celebrating.

He then opted to rush straight down the tunnel, rather than approaching the Arsenal manager for a handshake.

Another angle of footage went on to show Arteta’s perspective, as he strutted onto the pitch following a huddle with his staff.

The Spaniard looked towards the Villa bench as he entered the field, but to his surprise, Emery was already gone.

He stopped in his tracks and froze in disbelief, with his head rapidly going back and forth towards the tunnel and the Villa staff.

Eventually, he walked over to shake some other members of his opponent’s coaching team on the pitch instead.

And as he walked further on the pitch towards the officials, he could be seen shaking his head in disappointment at Emery.

Arteta was clearly frustrated and confused by Emery’s actions post-match, after his side came away convincing winners.

Arsenal took the three points thanks to goals from Gabriel, Martin Zubimendi, Leandro Trossard and Gabriel Jesus, with Ollie Watkins netting a late consolation for Aston Villa.

Sky Sports

Sky Sports

Sky Sports

What did Arteta say in response?

Arteta was asked about the incident that occurred with Emery in his post-match press conference on Tuesday.

He said: “You saw it, but it’s okay, it’s all good. It’s okay.

“That’s part of the game and it’s not an issue.”

Why did Emery not shake Arteta’s hand?

Villa boss Emery then also discussed the incident, explaining why he ignored Arteta on the touchline after the game.

“After finishing the match, my routine is always quick, shake hands… I was waiting,” he said post-match.

“Of course [Arteta] was happy. But he was with the coaches and I can’t wait for him.

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“I was there, but no problem. I went to my dressing room.”

Arsenal make title statement

Arsenal proved why they are sitting top of the Premier League table with their 4-1 thrashing of Aston Villa.

After a loss to Villa earlier this month, the Gunners’ resolve was truly tested in the title race, with Emery’s men on the charge.

But in the reverse fixture at the Emirates, Arteta’s side moved six points clear of their rivals with a huge victory.

Man City are in fine form and remain well in contention, but the win on Tuesday meant Arsenal will end 2025 at the top.