Arsenal vs Aston Villa at the Emirates Stadium, extending their lead at the top of the Premier League. The match, played on December 30, 2025, saw Mikel Arteta side overcome an early struggle to dominate Unai Emery in-form Villa, who arrived on an 11-game winning streak. Goals from Gabriel Jesus, Martin Zubimendi, and others showcased Arsenal’s ruthlessness, as Arteta praised his team’s efficiency in a post-match press conference. This win was particularly sweet for Arsenal however, Gabriel Magalhaes loaded an issue.
The Post-Match Handshake Snub
The controversy erupted immediately after the final whistle when Unai Emery, Arsenal’s former manager, appeared to storm down the tunnel without shaking hands with Arteta. Social media erupted with fans labeling Emery’s actions as ‘classless,’ accusing him of pettiness following the heavy defeat in the Arsenal vs Aston Villa game. Footage showed Emery briefly waiting before heading inside, while Arteta celebrated with his staff. This incident reignited discussions about Emery’s tenure at Arsenal, where he was sacked in 2019, paving the way for Arteta’s appointment.
Arsenal emphatically proved their title credentials with a convincing victory over Aston Villa at the Emirates to ensure Mikel Arteta's side will end 2025 at the summit of the Premier League.
Injuries continue to threaten to derail Arsenal — and yet, impressively, they continue… pic.twitter.com/Q2WYfLGyXL
— The Athletic | Football (@TheAthleticFC) December 30, 2025
Emery’s Defense
Emery quickly denied any intentional snub. He explained in his post-match comments. He was “waiting” for Arteta but decided to proceed to the dressing room when the Arsenal boss remained engaged with his coaches. “Of course, he was happy and he was with his coaches and I decided to go inside. But for me, no problem,” Emery stated. He emphasized his routine of quick handshakes and dismissed suggestions of bad blood, noting the pre-match embrace between the two Spaniards.
Despite missing 319 days of 2025 with an ACL injury, Gabriel Jesus ended his year on a high with a goal ⚽️
Patience and trust is key ❤️ pic.twitter.com/OdszG7GEFP
— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) December 31, 2025
Arteta’s Gracious Response
Mikel Arteta addressed the incident calmly, making his feelings clear by downplaying the drama. When asked about the missing handshake, he replied, “You saw it, but it’s okay, it’s all good.” Pressed further on whether it was disappointing. Arteta added, “No, that’s okay, that’s part of the game and it’s not unusual at all even for Gabriel Magalhaes”. His response highlighted maturity, focusing instead on Arsenal’s performance and the team’s ability to adapt against a “superb” Villa side.
The Games Ahead
This episode underscores the intense emotions in top-flight football, but both managers appear eager to move on. For Arteta, the win bolsters Arsenal’s title credentials amid a grueling schedule, while Emery faces questions about Villa’s form. As the Premier League resumes, the focus shifts back to the pitch, where rivalries like this continue to captivate fans.
As featured on GoonerNews.com
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