Aston Villa head into the new season with a number of world-class players on their books.
World-class may be a term that is thrown around a bit too often in football nowadays, but it’s hard to argue that Aston Villa star Emiliano Martinez doesn’t fall into that category.
Since his exit from Arsenal in 2020, Martinez has quickly grown to become one of the best goalkeepers in the world.
His dancing and antics between the sticks may not be for everyone, but he is undeniably a brilliant goalkeeper and a huge asset to Villa and Unai Emery.
The majority of Martinez’s success has come on the international stage with Argentina. He helped his side to the Copa America trophy in 2021 and was a standout performer in the 2022 World Cup where he won goalkeeper of the tournament.
His international trophy collection grew again this summer with another Copa America title under his belt, this time winning it with only one goal conceded in the whole tournament.
Silverware has continued to elude him at club level, but Martinez has now made a switch which he believes could change that.
Emiliano Martinez explains shirt number swap
Martinez was handed the traditional No.1 shirt at Villa Park following his £20million move from Arsenal.
He has worn the kit number for four years but decided this summer that he wants to change for superstitious reasons.
Via X, Aston Villa announced that Martinez will wear the No.23 for the upcoming campaign.
The number was previously taken by Philippe Coutinho, but the Brazilian has left on a season-long loan to Vasco da Gama.
When explaining his number change, Martinez said “Well, it’s been, I think four seasons [with] the number one. I won all the trophies with the national team with the number 23.
“It’s the day my boy was born on.
“I want to bring silverware to the fans, to the Villa. I’m really superstitious to be fair, so changing to 23, it’s a real special number for me and my family.”
Emiliano Martinez at Aston Villa next season
Martinez’s decision to leave Arsenal has been well and truly justified. Not only has he become one of the best goalkeepers in the world but he is now a cemented first-choice keeper for a Champions League club.
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Villa’s project under Emery is clearly on the right path and it only seems a matter of time until they get their hands on silverware.
Having to balance between Champions League football and domestic success will be a new challenge but Villa’s transfer business this summer means they are well-equipped for what is ahead.
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