Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez has responded to Barcelona star Lionel Messi’s comments about him, as quoted in Marca.
What’s the story?
Villa goalkeeper Martinez and Barcelona forward Messi are Argentina international teammates.
The duo won the Copa America with Argentina this summer.
Ahead of the final, Messi wrote on Instagram, as translated from Spanish: “Proud and happy to belong to this group !!! One more goal accomplished … Thank you God for continuing to give me these moments. We go for the glory. Without words, you deserve it BEAST !!”
Following the triumph, Barcelona superstar Messi posted a message on Instagram in which he was very complimentary towards the former Arsenal goalkeeper.
Messi wrote, as translated from Spanish: “Congratulations beast !!! More than deserved! You are crack.”
Emiliano Martinez responds
Martinez – who joined Villa from Arsenal last summer for £20 million, as reported by The Guardian – has responded to Messi’s comments now.
The Argentine goalkeeper said, as quoted in Marca: “I had no words when I saw that. Those are words and photos that I will keep for a lifetime.
“What he put on Instagram gave me the strength to tackle the final and be even better.”
Martinez added: “I will give him my life, I will die for him. I said it four or five months ago that I preferred that he wins the Copa America before I do. And it’s the truth.”
Wonderful story
Martinez and Messi clearly have a mutual respect, and that is lovely to see.
The Villa goalkeeper was a back-up at Arsenal for years before he got the chance to play regularly in the final weeks of the 2019-20 campaign.
The 28-year-old was superb for Villa last season after joining from Arsenal.
As for Messl, arguably the greatest ever footballer in the world finally has a major international trophy.
The World Cup might be next.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
