Emiliano Martinez has posted on his Instagram that’ football isn’t fair’ after Aston Villa parted ways with goalkeeping coach Neil Cutler on Monday evening.
With Unai Emery set to take charge of his first Aston Villa game on Sunday against Manchester United, the 50-year-old has decided to remove a number of the backroom staff that were already at the club.
Aaron Danks, who has been in the Villa dugout for the past two matches following Steven Gerrard’s sacking, is another name that has departed, as the club posted on Twitter.
But, for Martinez, it’s the exit of Cutler, who has been with Villa since their days in the Championship, that has hurt him the most.
Ever since the £17 million star (BBC Sport) arrived from Arsenal during the 2020 summer transfer window, he has transformed into one of the best keepers in the Premier League, including becoming a Copa America winner with Argentina.
Cutler, who also played a huge part in getting the best out of the likes of Jed Steer and Orjan Nyland for a brief period, has helped Martinez climb that ladder and this is what Villa’s number one posted regarding his exit.
“I can’t thank you enough for the way you helped me since day one,” said Martinez. “Not just a GK coach, to me you became my friend, unfortunately, football isn’t fair sometimes, but I’m sure you will find the right club for you. The best English coach by miles.”
RUTHLESS CALL BY EMERY
Cutler was a popular figure with Aston Villa fans and the performances the goalkeepers have showcased are a testament to his work at Bodymoor Heath.
But Emery clearly wants to implement his own style on Villa, which probably includes playing out from the back, so he has brought in his own coaches to transform those ideas across.
It’s a ruthless call from the new Villa boss, but in years to come, if it proves to be the right decision, then that is all that matters.
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