Unai Emery says Aston Villa let victory over Manchester United slip away

Aston Villa manager Unai Emery said his side missed a strong opportunity to beat Manchester United after surrendering a 4-2 lead to draw 4-4 at Old Trafford.

The hosts mounted a dramatic comeback in one of the most entertaining and exciting matches of the Premier League season, scoring twice in the second half while Villa were controlling the game.

“We had difficulties in the first half after scoring two goals,” the Spanish manager told Sky Sports. “Manchester United scored twice in the second half when we were controlling the match.”

Emery added: “We missed a good opportunity to win against Manchester United.”

Villa led 4-2 until the 90th minute, but Manchester United completed the comeback with a goal in the sixth minute of added time.

“We feel disappointed and frustrated because we were winning 4-2 until the 90th minute,” said Emery.

The Villa manager said he had left the technical area immediately after the equaliser because he believed the match was over.

“I left the pitch directly after Manchester United’s goal because I thought the match had finished,” he said. “The goal was scored in the sixth minute of added time, which was what the referee had indicated. I am not saying that was unfair.”

The point lifted Manchester United’s total to eight points from 10 matches, leaving them 18th in the table and inside the relegation places.

Aston Villa moved to 13 points and are 10th.