Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino has hailed Emiliano Martinez, a player Arsenal sold to Aston Villa three-and-a-half years ago.
The Blues were held to a 0-0 draw by Unai Emery‘s side at Stamford Bridge yesterday. Chelsea definitely had chances to score, but Martinez was really good for Villa in goal.
Mauricio Pochettino praises Arsenal old-boy Emiliano Martinez
Emiliano Martinez was on Arsenal’s books for about a decade.
The Argentine spent most of his time away on loan, but he did make his mark in his final year, helping the Gunners win the FA Cup and the Community Shield.
Aston Villa then signed Martinez for just £17 million in 2020 (BBC), and he has been one of the best goalkeepers in the world since.
The 31-year-old has been incredible for Villa as well as for his country. He played a big part in helping Argentina win the Copa America and the World Cup in recent years.
Last night, Martinez had another very impressive game, and Mauricio Pochettino heaped praise on him after his side were made to settle for a draw.
Speaking to BBC Sport about Martinez, the Chelsea boss said: “Of course, he is a world champion and is world-class. It’s always so difficult to beat them.”
Pochettino praised him further, as quoted by Sky Sports: “On Tuesday, we scored six. Today, one would be good! But it’s because the keeper (Martinez) is an amazing keeper and sometimes you need some luck to score.”
Martinez has gone up a level since leaving Arsenal
Emi Martinez was never the first choice during his time at Arsenal.
He only got an opportunity when Bernd Leno suffered a serious injury at the end of the 2019/20 campaign, and that changed his life.
After a great end to his Arsenal career, Martinez’s performances went to another level. He is a star for both Aston Villa and Argentina and is now one of the best goalkeepers on the planet.
Villa are having a great season, and if Martinez can continue to save them in difficult moments, they could achieve something really special in the coming months.