Emi Martinez exit: Saudi sources ‘confirm’ Aston Villa bombshell
Aston Villa could be set to lose one of their biggest stars this summer as rumours circulate around goalkeeper Emi Martinez.
There is no doubt that the Argentine is one of the best keepers in the world. Since he joined Villa in 2020, he quickly became the club’s number one choice and has helped the Claret and Blue side rise up the table.
However, his feats internationally have won him the most praise. In the last five years, Martinez has lifted two Copa Americas and the 2022 World Cup.
As a result, he has been awarded the Yashin Award in the last two years for being the best goalkeeper in the world.
Now, Villa could be set to lose their prized player, with Saudi clubs circling.
Aston Villa ‘preparing’ for Martinez’s departure to Saudi Arabia
Villa have lost plenty of players to Saudi over the past year. Last summer, record signing Moussa Diaby made the switch to Al-Ittihad after a year at Villa Park.
Then, in January, Jhon Duran moved to Al-Nassr after an impressive start to the 2024/25 campaign.
Martinez is now the latest Villa name linked with a move to the Middle East.
| Emi Martinez stats for the 2024/25 campaign | |
| Appearances | 49 |
| Clean sheets | 12 |
| Goals conceded | 61 |
According to the Telegraph (1 May), a Saudi source has “confirmed” that Martinez is being lined up for a move to the nation.
Villa are expected to sell players this summer, no matter if they qualify for the Champions League, to help navigate financial rules, while also using the funds to improve the team.
As a result, many clubs are now aiming to test Villa’s resolve with bids expected for Martinez.
While it is currently unknown if Villa will accept a bid from Saudi Arabia for the ‘keeper, the report states that the club has been “planning for his potential departure”.
Aston Villa should sell Martinez
While Martinez is obviously a sensational goalkeeper, this season, he has been poor.
Martinez has made a series of costly mistakes in big games, including in the recent Champions League quarter-final defeat to PSG.
The Argentine is also not getting any younger, with the ‘keeper set to turn 33 years old later this year.
If a big bid comes in from Saudi, Villa should accept it and reinvest the money into the squad.