Emiliano Martinez has officially completed a move to Aston Villa, signing a four year deal for a fee of £20 million. The Argentine goalkeeper leaves Arsenal after nine years at the club full of ups and downs.
It looked as though last season was finally the year in which Martinez staked a claim for the number one spot. It wasn’t to be, however, and, despite the FA Cup heroics, Bernd Leno still seemed the first choice for Mikel Arteta.
Aston Villa Complete Signing of Emiliano Martinez
🟣 #WelcomeEmi 🟣
Introducing our new goalkeeper: @EmiMartinezz1! 🙌 pic.twitter.com/ZWTVEEHhXr
— Aston Villa (@AVFCOfficial) September 16, 2020
New Beginning
It was a long nine years at Arsenal for Martinez. Most of those years were spent on loan. Last season, though, he finally got his moment in the spotlight as his heroics between the sticks led to a 14th FA Cup for Arsenal. It was a true fairytale story, from being the forgotten man to becoming the hero.
That story, however, has reached its end. Now, Martinez has a new script to write in a new beginning at Aston Villa. He has the chance to become a hero at Villa Park by taking them to second season safety and potentially much much more.
Solution for Aston Villa
Last season, with an ageing Pepe Reina often taking the hot seat in place of the injured Tom Heaton, Villa struggled to come up with long term solutions between the sticks. Martinez’s arrival puts an end to any concerns when it comes to between the posts.
The Argentine shot-stopper has proven his capabilities on the ball, while also pulling off saves only the best pull off.
What Was Said?
After securing the deal, Dean Smith told the club website:
“We are really pleased with the signing of our new goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez.
“We know how highly Arsenal rated him and we watched his outstanding performances last season in a trophy-winning top side.
“We moved for Emi when we saw the opportunity, as it is rare to be able to buy a top class goalkeeper who hasn’t yet reached their peak age and who can therefore be a key player for our Club for the long term.”
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