Monchi reveals he turned down Arsenal role with Emery before Villa reunion

Former Aston Villa sporting director Monchi has detailed how he pulled out of a move to join Unai Emery at Arsenal, a decision he admits caused tension between the two men. The account emerged during an interview with Spanish outlet Mucho Deporte, as reported by Birmingham Live.

According to his recollection, Monchi had decided to leave Roma and received a direct invitation from Emery to become part of the coaching staff in north London. He says he was on the point of finalising terms when Sevilla president Pepe Castro telephoned to ask him back to the Andalusian club.

Monchi explained that he felt unable to refuse Castro, who had previously facilitated his departure for Italy. That choice meant abandoning the Arsenal plan midway through exchanging contracts, which he acknowledged frustrated Emery because both were enthusiastic about the prospect of working together again.

The pair first collaborated during three seasons at Sevilla, winning the Europa League in each campaign before Emery left for Paris Saint-Germain. Monchi later returned to Sevilla for a second spell lasting four years, describing it as a difficult period despite his gratitude for the opportunity.

Emery subsequently invited Monchi to join him at PSG and then at Arsenal, neither of which materialised. They were finally reunited at Villa Park in 2023, where Monchi served as sporting director until his departure from the club.

Reflecting on their time in the West Midlands, Monchi told Mucho Deporte that the manager he encountered in Birmingham differed significantly from the one he knew in Spain. He characterised Emery as someone constantly striving to improve, with a deep interest in video analysis, imagery and match preparation.

Aston Villa have not commented on the interview. The club are next in action against Brentford at Villa Park on Saturday 10 October.