Unai Emery did something he rarely does in last-gasp Aston Villa win vs Arsenal
Unai Emery continues to defy the odds at Aston Villa.
Villa secured a huge 2-1 win against Arsenal on Saturday, with a crazy late winner sending Villa Park into utter ecstasy.
Emi Buendia netted against Arsenal as his moment of calm quality made all the difference to send the Villans just three points behind the Premier League summit.
The Villans were good value for the three points after Villa dragged Arsenal all over the pitch with a fluid formation that got the best out of Morgan Rogers and Youri Tielemans in particular.
Emery was the mastermind behind the match plan, as always, but even he was unable to control his emotions in the middle of such a crazy situation.
Unai Emery in passionate celebrations after Arsenal win
Villa may well be in a Premier League title race after such a stellar run of results has fired them up to third in the table after 15 games.
That ultimately is down to the Spaniard and his ability to get the best out of a crop of players who clearly love playing for him.
The claret and blue outfit has shown that in recent weeks, with their togetherness on show, none more so than in the wins over Brighton and Arsenal.
Emery has never been one for celebrating with fans during the season, preferring to thank them and raise a glass when the campaign is over.
He is still known for celebrating important goals on the sidelines, with Sunday People journalist Andy Dunn taking note of his passion after Buendia found the net.
He said: “For a man whose celebrations are not always too animated, Unai Emery almost took leave of his senses at Villa Park.
“It is quite possible even the springiest of centre-forwards has not leapt as high at this grand old venue as the Aston Villa manager did when Emi Buendia hit the most dramatic of winners deep, deep into added time.
“After Peter Bankes had called time once VAR confirmed there was nothing amiss with Buendia’s goal, Emery returned to a state of relative calm and performed his usual, very admirable post-match routine.“
Aston Villa humility begins with Emery
Arsenal fans have been known to take things a step too far on social media and misread the meaning of Erling Haaland’s “stay humble” quote.
The Gunners were hugely expectant of a Villa Park win, especially when Declan Rice was declared fit for the encounter.
Villa obviously came away with the three points, and the home faithful were utterly delighted as they couldn’t contain their joy.
Even still, there is no true expectation for the rest of the season as supporters back Emery to get the best out of his side moving forward.
The Spaniard knows that nothing is done right now and will make his true feelings known once 38 Premier League games are complete.
Enjoyed this article? Stay connected with all the latest Aston Villa news, updates, and behind-the-scenes content by following us on our new Instagram account – @villanews247