credit: Imago and tkenny46 on X

Max Wilkins

Fri 16 May 2025 21:54, UK

Emi Martinez cut an emotional figure after Aston Villa secured a huge three points against Tottenham on Friday night.

The Villans welcomed Spurs to B6 on 16 May and won 2-0, continuing the race for Champions League qualification in the process.

Goals from Ezri Konsa and Boubacar Kamara proved to be enough as the home side played for the final time at Villa Park for the season.

The result was massively important, but it was after the full-time whistle that sparked emotion from goalkeeper Martinez after recent links away.

Martinez cries at full time after Aston Villa v Tottenham

The world’s number one has had his issues this season, but has really turned things around with three clean sheets on the bounce.

Against Tottenham, the Argentina international was able to make it three from three after making a superb save in the first half.

This helped Villa to take all three points, sparking an unexpectedly emotional moment from the keeper as he made his way down the tunnel.

The 32-year-old was spotted by journalist John Townley on the pitch for the final home game of the season “spending a few moments taking it all in”.

This came before the shot-stopper wiped his eyes and appeared to potentially wave goodbye to the home faithful before walking down the tunnel.

This could add fuel to the fire over a potential summer exit after the Telegraph reported (1 May) interest from Saudi Arabia in Martinez ahead of the window.

Martinez waves goodbye to Aston Villa

There is no doubt that the Argentine has been one of the best signings that the Villans have ever made.

Dean Smith brought in Martinez from Arsenal after his FA Cup win in North London before he went on to win it all with Argentina.

This has seen him put in some stellar performances, with his save against Nottingham Forest this season being one of the best in Premier League history.

Now with links to Saudi Arabia, it does feel as if the keeper could be done at Villa Park, especially after seemingly waving goodbye.

It will certainly be an interesting summer and one that many Villa fans will hope ends with Martinez still starting as number one for Aston Villa.