Unai Emery responds to Arsenal accusation following handshake 'brouhaha'

Unai Emery has admitted he didn't shake the hands of any Arsenal coaches following Aston Villa's 1-0 win on Saturday but insists there was no malicious intent. The Spaniard didn't offer the usual sporting gesture at the full-time whistle, instead making a beeline to celebrate with the Villa supporters near the touchline.

Although a little lost in the moment due to the contrasting heightened emotions at Villa Park, Emery's lack of handshake was still noticed by some and he was quizzed on it in the post-match press conference. The manager, who is renowned for his usually respectful manner, maintained there was no ill aim.

"No, because Arteta wasn't on the bench," Emery responded when asked if he approached any of Arsenal's staff. "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.

"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," Emery continued.

The Gunners' head coach probably wasn't even aware of the incident as he was of course suspended from the touchline at Villa Park. Up in the heights of the Trinity Road Stand, Arteta had to watch on from afar and was unable to bark his usual instructions. He also left about 30 seconds before the game came to a close.

This isn't the first time this season Emery hasn't shaken hands at the full-time whistle as he had a confrontation with Gary O'Neil away at Wolverhampton Wanderers at the start of October.

Unlike that particular occasion, though, there wasn't any sort of coming together against Arsenal. If anything, it's probably just an example of brouhaha that'll soon be forgotten.