Aston Villa Manager Emery Praises Martinez as Best Goalkeeper

Amid a difficult start to Aston Villa's 2025/26 Premier League season, manager Unai Emery has expressed great satisfaction that Emiliano Martínez remains with the club despite the goalkeeper's desire to join Manchester United, whose transfer pursuit ultimately fell through. Emery has repeatedly hailed Martínez as "the best goalkeeper in the world" and praised his immense commitment and professionalism, noting that the World Cup winner is now focused on playing for Villa and Argentina. Martínez missed a recent match due to transfer speculation but is expected to return as the starting goalkeeper in upcoming fixtures, including an away game against Everton. Emery emphasized that player movement uncertainties are normal in football and that the squad currently has positive energy, with Martínez appearing happy and ready for the season's challenges. Additionally, Villa strengthened their squad late in the transfer window by signing players like Jadon Sancho, Harvey Elliott, and Victor Lindelof, aiming to improve their performance after a poor start. Despite the transfer drama, Emery's confidence in Martínez and the team's reinforcements signals a determination to turn their season around.