Lionel Messi has lauded former Arsenal goalkeeper Emi Martinez after another superb performance for Argentina. With the attacker even labelling the shot-stopper has one of the best in the world.
Speaking to TNT Sport, the PSG superstar praised his international teammate after keeping a clean sheet in FIFA World Cup qualifying. Martinez once again started between the sticks as Argentina claimed a 3-0 win against South American rivals Uruguay.
The former Arsenal star has gone from strength to strength since leaving the north London club in 2020. Martinez has established himself as one of the best goalkeepers in the Premier League, as well as in world football.
Martinez was one of the ten nominees for this year’s Yashin Trophy. And based on Messi’s comments over the weekend, the Villa keeper more than deserves the recognition for his outstanding form over the past 12 months.
Messi said on the former Arsenal star: “Dibu [Emi] Martinez has been fundamental. When we are defending, he always delivers. He has established himself in goal, and now we have one of the best goalkeepers in the world.”
Indeed, it is no wonder Messi believes Martinez is one of the best goalkeepers in world football. After all, the 29-year-old shot-stopper was key to Argentina winning the 2021 Copa America over the summer.
Messi comments prove Argentina star Martinez was right to leave Arsenal
The debate on whether or not Arsenal were right to sell Martinez has been continuous ever since the keeper was sold to Villa last summer. Yet Messi’s comments prove that the Argentine himself made the right decision leaving north London.
Martinez’s development since leaving Arsenal has been nothing short of outstanding. And even though the keeper could have realistically replaced Bernd Leno and saved Arsenal some £20m on Aaron Ramsdale, the South American might not have reached these heights had he stayed with the Gunners.
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