Unai Emery has addressed criticism after appearing to bypass the traditional post-match handshake with Rob Edwards following Aston Villa’s 2-0 defeat to Wolverhampton Wanderers on Friday night.
Villa’s loss at Molineux came during a difficult run of form that has seen them win just one of their last six Premier League matches. Once loosely mentioned in title conversations earlier in the campaign, Emery’s side now risk slipping further in the race for Champions League qualification.
Unai Emery handshake incident after Wolves defeat
The controversy emerged after the final whistle, when Emery was seen heading towards the tunnel rather than engaging in the customary exchange with Edwards.
Asked by Sky Sports whether frustration had prompted his early departure, Emery dismissed the suggestion.
“No, the match was finished…” — Unai Emery
The Spaniard appeared unimpressed by the line of questioning, though he offered no further clarification.
Wolves secured only their second home win of the season from 29 attempts, courtesy of second-half goals from João Gomes and Rodrigo Gomes. Despite their position near the bottom of the table, the result offered Edwards’ side a morale boost.
Rob Edwards responds to handshake questions
Edwards, speaking post-match, struck a measured tone when asked whether he had crossed paths with Emery.
“Not yet, I get it. The two games we won both managers had disappeared. They probably think they can turn up and win given how the season has gone! I’ve got a lot of respect for Unai, I think he’s brilliant, so it’s fine.” — Rob Edwards
The Wolves boss downplayed the moment, emphasising mutual respect despite the optics.
Pattern of post-match reactions
This is not the first time this season Emery has faced questions over post-match protocol. In December, following a heavy defeat to Arsenal, he explained leaving early by saying, “I can’t wait forever. It was cold.”
Having followed Villa’s recent performances closely, tension has understandably risen during a challenging spell. However, it remains unclear whether Friday’s incident was intentional or simply circumstantial.
What’s Next?
Aston Villa will look to regroup quickly as they prepare for their next Premier League fixture, with momentum slipping at a critical stage of the season. Maintaining composure both on and off the pitch will be vital if they are to steady their push for European qualification.
Wolves, meanwhile, will aim to build on a rare home victory as they continue fighting at the foot of the table.
Was Emery simply focused on the result, or should managerial etiquette matter more in high-pressure moments?
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