Unai Emery ‘irked’ Arsenal aces – but Aston Villa gave him power to make Champions League
Unai Emery has significantly transformed Aston Villa’s fortunes, a feat he wasn’t given enough time to achieve at Arsenal. Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal has had an impressive season, but if they finish as runners-up again, Emery’s achievements at Villa might stand out even more. Last season, Arsenal led the league for most of the time but ended up second. This season, they could win the championship if they beat Everton and Manchester City fails against West Ham. However, City has the advantage. In contrast, Emery has taken Villa from seventh to fourth place, securing Champions League football for the first time in 40 years. Villa, struggling under Steven Gerrard, has been revitalized by Emery, who could have similarly transformed Arsenal if given more time.