Prince William could not resist a playful jab at an Arsenal icon after he overlooked Aston Villa’s match-winner Emi Buendia when naming his man of the match during Villa’s dramatic 2-1 victory.
There was a late twist at Villa Park. Buendia sealed the game for the Villans with a stoppage-time strike
That goal delivered a damaging blow to Arsenal’s title ambitions and handed Manchester City fresh momentum.
Yet when the former Arsenal man selected Martin Odegaard for the award. So, the Villa-supporting Prince immediately questioned the decision of Martin Keown.
Writing from the Kensington Royal account on X, Prince William posted:
“Surely Emi Buendia for man of the match, [TNT Sports]?! An incredible game! UTV!”
Keown later admitted he had made his choice in the 89th minute, saying on air:
“I’m really sorry that I’ve upset royalty, but I actually gave it out – can you believe it – in the 89th minute.
I was a bit early. We can unofficially do it [give it to Buendia]. I don’t want to be court-martialled.”
Paul Scholes also didn’t back down from criticising the Arsenal legend. He compared his commentary to Paddy Crerand’s famously biased Manchester United broadcasts. Scholes remarked:
“Listening to Keown on TNT is like listening to Paddy Crerand on MUTV.”
Fans echoed that sentiment as Keown’s allegiances were questioned despite his spell at Villa earlier in his career.
The former defender admitted the defeat was “sickening” for Arsenal’s title hopes, though he praised the thrilling finish that left Villa Park rocking.
Arsenal’s next Premier League game will be against Wolves, who are struggling big time. So, the Gunners should be able to shrug off the Villa disappointment in that game at the Emirates Stadium.
Surely Emi Buendia for man of the match @footballontnt?! An incredible game! UTV! W https://t.co/k7XTkQjoPz
— The Prince and Princess of Wales (@KensingtonRoyal) December 6, 2025
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