Aston Villa make season-defining decision on Emi Martinez already as sources speak out
Aston Villa and Emi Martinez have had a whirlwind last few days after his exit failed to materialise.
Since the 3-0 defeat to Crystal Palace, focus has centred around sorting out any issues away from the pitch, with the international break helping Villa.
Martinez tried to force an exit from Aston Villa and join Manchester United on deadline day, after being left out of the squad against Palace.
However, the Villans couldn’t offload the Argentine, and supporters have been in the dark as to whether he will play for them ever again.
Aston Villa will reintegrate Emi Martinez into their squad
The build-up and aftermath of the game against Palace has been entertaining for neutrals, but Villa fans have been on edge.
Before the game, when questioned about Martinez’s absence, Unai Emery only replied, “Marco Bizot,” and after the game, the Spaniard was left unamused at his number one keeper.
Now, according to The Athletic, he is expected to be reintegrated into Aston Villa’s squad after failing to secure a move to Manchester United on transfer deadline day.
Sources close to Martinez have said that the plan is for the Argentine to return following the international break and be available for selection.
However, his reintegration into the squad will depend on how the 33-year-old responds, with his long-term future uncertain, and fears he could force a move away in future windows.
The goalkeeper is currently away on international duty with Argentina and started in their 3-0 win against Venezuela, and is expected to be in the starting 11 against Ecuador in their World Cup qualifier.
It will be interesting to see whether Martinez will start when he returns to Aston Villa for the game against Everton next time out.
But the bottom line is that Villa have made a season-defining decision in being willing to welcome Martinez back into the fold.
- Read more: Emi Martinez slammed at Aston Villa as details of contact with Manchester United star emerge
Timeline of Emi Martinez’s transfer saga?
Martinez’s brother has claimed the keeper loves Aston Villa, despite long-term links with a move away.
The Argentine hasn’t been short of suitors in recent years, but his antics on deadline day have dented his reputation.
Timeline of Martinez’s actions:
- January 2025: Contact made between Martinez’s representatives and Manchester United
- May 2025: Martínez appears emotional during Aston Villa’s final home game, waving to the fans
- Summer 2025: Manchester United makes a loan inquiry that is rejected by Aston Villa.
- August 31, 2025: Martínez is left out of the Aston Villa squad for their match against Crystal Palace.
So far, Bizot has been poor, but Emery will likely give him more of an opportunity to prove himself.
Bizot was at fault for two of Aston Villa’s goals conceded in the 3-0 defeat to Crystal Palace.
However, should the Dutchman find his feet, there will be uncertainty whether Martinez will play many more competitive games for the Villans.
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