Aston Villa have resolved to reintegrate Emiliano Martinez into their squad after the Argentine custodian’s much-anticipated move to Manchester United failed to materialise. The 33-year-old shot-stopper, reportedly earning £150,000 per week, had his heart set on a transfer to Old Trafford at the conclusion of the 2024/25 season.
Despite realistic interest from United and a tense wait on the final day of the transfer window, the move did not come to pass. Instead, Martinez found himself heading off for international duty with Argentina, following United’s decision to sign Senne Lammens. Although relieved not to reach the infamous levels of Peter Odemwingie’s transfer fiasco, Martinez returns to Birmingham with a sense of unfulfillment.
However, the relationship between Martinez, the club, and its supporters remains largely intact. Despite his unmistakable intentions to depart, his conduct was far from reprehensible.
Under contract and part of Unai Emery’s plans, Martinez’s absence was noted in Villa’s recent fixture versus Crystal Palace, where Marco Bizot manned the posts. With his return anticipated, Emery’s decisions regarding the starting goalkeeper remain to be seen.
According to The Athletic, Martinez’s reintegration into the first-team fold is imminent, though it will depend significantly on his mindset upon returning. With a clean sheet to his name in Argentina’s recent 3-0 victory over Venezuela, Martinez appears in good form.
Lionel Scaloni, Argentina’s head coach, remarked: “Emi is fine. Though his transfer didn’t happen, his spirits were high celebrating his birthday. He must have been thrilled about Manchester United, but he remains positive. Upon his return to Villa, I’m confident he’ll refocus.”
The future for Martinez at Aston Villa holds a degree of uncertainty, with his long-term position yet undecided, as he resumes duties post the international break.
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