Emery and Martinez Fire Back with Scathing Comments After Arsenal Crushing
Aston Villa boss Unai Emery stated it was too "chilly" to linger and exchange handshakes with Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta after his team's disappointing 4–1 loss in London, while keeper Emiliano Martínez took a veiled swipe at Gabriel regarding the defender's first goal.
The Villans witnessed their impressive 11-match victory run end abruptly on Tuesday night against the table-toppers. Arsenal scored four goals in the latter half to enter the new year with a five-point advantage over Manchester City, who possess a match in reserve.
As the final whistle blew at the Emirates, Emery made his way down the tunnel without seeking out Arteta initially, though the manager remained evasive with reporters when questioned about the situation.
"Yes, but it's straightforward," the 54-year-old informed Sky Sports. "You can observe. Following the match conclusion, my usual practice is swift - shake hands and proceed with my coaching staff, with my squad, or head to the changing room.
"And I was lingering, I was lingering. Naturally, he was pleased and he was alongside his staff and I chose to head inside. But for me, no issue. I couldn't wait, it was chilly."
Arteta subsequently stated everything was "fine" between the coaches and described Emery's quick departure as simply "part of football" and "not a concern."
Martínez Targets Gabriel for Disputed Opening Strike
Unlike his coach, Martínez chose to adopt a more direct stance following Aston Villa's initial loss since Nov. 1. The Argentine turned to social platforms to indirectly criticize the referees for not ruling out the Gunners' first goal of the evening.
Gabriel struck Martínez with a trailing arm as the center-back rose to challenge Bukayo Saka's cross from the corner in the 48th minute. The shot-stopper dropped the ball mid-air and it deflected off the Brazilian before crossing the goal line.
Martínez shared an image of what he apparently deemed a foul during the buildup with the message, "The superior team prevailed today. We remain in favorable position for the campaign's second half."
He included "elbow allow" at the post's conclusion to criticize the ruling. Gabriel playfully responded by liking the image.
Despite the setback, the Villans enter the new year occupying third position in the Premier League, sitting just six points behind Arteta's squad.