Emery Tiffs With Tielemans Despite Villa Progressing

Aston Villa secured their place in the Europa League last 16 with a 1-0 win over Fenerbahce on Thursday, 22 January, but a physical altercation between Unai Emery and Youri Tielemans overshadowed the victory.

The incident occurred in stoppage time when Tielemans was substituted. As the 28-year-old Belgian approached the touchline, an agitated Emery refused a handshake, screamed at the midfielder, and then aggressively pushed his chest.

While the 54-year-old manager’s outburst drew heavy criticism, he later dismissed the tension during a post-game interview. A smiling Emery told an international publication: “He’s my son.”

Pundit Joleon Lescott was less convinced by the display, stating: “I’m sure it’s more innocent than it looks, but I don’t like the look of it.”

Speculation about the cause of the friction ranged from a recent yellow card to the player’s speed of exit from the pitch. Despite the public spat, the pair reportedly reconciled with a hug in the dressing room.

The drama failed to derail Villa’s European campaign. Jadon Sancho’s first-half header ensured a top-eight finish, leaving Emery “dreaming” of a record fifth title as he celebrated his 100th game in the competition.

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