Sporting director Monchi shared details of how he was on the brink of a move to Arsenal with Unai Emery back in 2018, only for the transfer to collapse at the final hurdle.
I was on the verge of making the move. But just as the contracts were being exchanged with Arsenal, Pepe Castro called me. I couldn't say no to that call, which caused some friction with Unai.
Emery was ultimately sacked from his position at Arsenal in November during his second season. He later went on to lift the UEFA Europa League with Villarreal before taking the helm at Aston Villa, where he would reunite with Monchi.
The sporting director praised the manager for his obsession with video analysis and detailed match preparation.
The Unai I knew at Sevilla is nothing like the Unai I have come to know in Birmingham. He has improved significantly because he is a person who always strives for perfection.
