On November 3rd 2021, Unai Emery rejected a move to Newcastle United.
On April 12th 2022, he knocked out Bayern Munich to take Villarreal to the Champions League semi-finals.
It was another shocking night in Europe’s elite competition, with both ties throwing up twists and turns to re-establish its dominance at the top of club football.
Real Madrid and Chelsea played out a thriller, with the former winning it in extra time despite a wonderful showing from Thomas Tuchel’s men.
But the big surprise of the night came in Germany. Villarreal went to the Allianz Arena with a 1-0 lead, preparing to take on one of the best sides in world football.
Despite the La Liga side having an advantage, Bayern were still the overriding favourites. They were at home, while their squad is a who’s who of world stars.
It looked like the game was heading for extra time with Robert Lewandowski drawing the Bavarians level on aggregate. However, an 88th minute goal from Samuel Chukwueze settled the tie.
Villarreal went in front on aggregate again, and secured their place in the Champions League’s final four. They will now face the winner of Liverpool and Benfica for a place in the final.
It was a magical night for Villarreal, and justified Emery’s decision last year.
Unai Emery right to stick with Villarreal
When Newcastle were looking for Steve Bruce’s replacement, it eventually emerged that it was a two-horse race between Emery and Eddie Howe.
The former was the favourite, which was incredibly exciting for Toon fans. Emery has a great reputation despite his time with Arsenal, and looked like he could be a landmark appointment.
It even appeared that a deal was going to happen, solidifying Newcastle’s new pulling power.
But then the deal collapsed, with the 50-year-old deciding to stay at Villarreal. It was a blow for the Magpies’ new owners, who turned to Howe with egg on their face.
In the end, everyone has been a winner. Howe has done brilliantly at St James’ Park, changing the culture of the club and guiding us up the Premier League table.
Meanwhile, Emery is 180 minutes away from doing something no Villarreal manager has done before. The Yellow Submarines have never reached a Champions League final, and are now preparing for the second appearance in the semis.
160 days after saying no to Newcastle, Emery is proven right.
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