‘Emery to go public’ amid Martinez claim ahead of Aston Villa FA Cup semi-final
Aston Villa manager Unai Emery has been urged to go public about Emi Martinez after his recent errors.
The Argentina international has been consistently sensational for the Villans since signing from Arsenal in 2020 under Dean Smith.
This has seen him guide Villa to the Champions League while winning the World Cup with his country, cementing his place among the best keepers in the world.
With that being said, Emery has a decision to make with the 32-year-old after his many mistakes in recent games, which have cost his side massively.
Emery must back Martinez publicly at Aston Villa
There is no doubt that the shot-stopper is one of the most important players for the B6 club and has to be trusted
With that being said, his error against Manchester City ultimately cancelled out Marcus Rashford’s penalty and contributed to a defeat at the Etihad.
It was a similar story against PSG as his mistake saw the Ligue 1 giants take a lead which was almost unassailable at Villa Park.
| Stat | Emi Martinez v PSG |
| Saves | 5 |
| Errors led to goal | 1 |
| Long ball completion rate (%) | 8 |
With that in mind, Emery may have a decision to make over whether to bench Martinez as an FA Cup semi-final against Crystal Palace looms.
Former Brentford and Leicester City manager Martin Allen has urged the Spaniard to back his keeper publicly rather than think about dropping him.
Speaking exclusively to Villa News, ex-Premier League midfielder Allen said: “I think he’s a world-class keeper and every now and then they make errors.
“He’s made mistakes, there’s no doubt about that, but I don’t think Emery will think about leaving him out.
“I would imagine he’ll go public and assure him that he’s playing the number one keeper. You have to stand by these players, and I don’t think they would even consider dropping him.
“As annoying as he can be, he is still absolutely world-class.“
Martinez must still start v Crystal Palace
The Argentine has to be the number one choice for Emery as his side turn up to Wembley on Saturday (26 April) with an FA Cup final on the line.
There may be a selection dilemma with Ollie Watkins and Rashford, but there shouldn’t be in between the sticks.
Martinez deserves the opportunity to rectify his mistakes at the home of English football, and there is every chance that he could have a telling impact.