Emery explains skipping handshake with Arteta after Villas defeat by Arsenal

Unai Emery attributed his decision not to shake hands with Mikel Arteta to the chilly conditions at the Emirates Stadium after Aston Villas comprehensive 4-1 defeat against the Premier League frontrunners Arsenal.

The outcome on Tuesday in north London positioned the Gunners five points ahead of Manchester City in second place and six points clear of Villa in third, undermining the Birmingham outfits chances of securing their first English league title since 1981.

Arsenals second half strikes from Gabriel, Martin Zubimendi, Leandro Trossard and Gabriel Jesus proved decisive at the Emirates, prior to Ollie Watkins netting a consolation goal for Villa deep into stoppage time.

This marked a decisive conclusion to Villas run of 11 consecutive victories, which equalled their club record.

As the whistle blew for full time, Arsenal boss Arteta, who took over from Emery at the Gunners, briefly hugged his coaching team before heading to the visitors bench to meet his fellow Spaniard.

However, Emery had already headed towards the tunnel, having exchanged a handshake with fourth official Thomas Kirk.

It is straightforward, Emery commented when questioned on the matter.

You could observe it. Once the game concludes, my usual practice is to move swiftly, offer a handshake, and then join my coaching staff and players in the locker room.

I waited, I waited. He, meaning Arteta, was understandably delighted. He celebrated with his team. At that point, I chose to enter the tunnel. Yet, for me, it poses no issue.

Emery subsequently shared with Sky Sports: My standard procedure involves approaching the opposing manager for a handshake before heading indoors. If he does not adhere to the same protocol, I cannot linger especially given the cold weather.

Arteta minimised the episode by stating: You witnessed it, but everything is fine, no concerns. Such moments occur in the sport and are quite commonplace.

Arsenal needed until the second period to demonstrate their prowess versus Villa, appearing burdened lately by the intense desire to claim the Premier League crown after a 22 year absence.

Nevertheless, they produced an impressive display in preparation for Manchester Citys upcoming fixture against Sunderland on Thursday.

I am thrilled, Arteta remarked, continuing: Villa form an excellent side, challenging to face, and we anticipated tough spells during the encounter.

We discussed the emotional toll it would take, and we found it tough in the opening 10 minutes. Afterwards, we adapted, gained better possession. Although we failed to find the net initially, we gelled effectively in the latter half.