As Emi Martinez came up trumps for Argentina once again in their penalty shootout win in the World Cup final against France, many have wondered whether he ever played for Oxford United.
Did Emi Martinez ever sign for Oxford United?
The answer is yes.
Emi Martinez was sent out on loan to Oxford United from Arsenal.
At the time, the 19-year-old was not the Gunners’ first-choice goalkeeper but Wojciech Szczesny was.
As a result, the-then youngster was considered as surplus to requirements.
The League Two side had a goalkeeping crisis as both Ryan Clark and Wayne Brown had suffered injuries.
While Connor Ripley’s loan deal was terminated, which meant the club were in desperate need for a goalkeeper and in stepped none other than now-World Cup winner Emi Martinez.
When did the Argentina shootout hero play for the League Two club?
It was in January 2012 when Emiliano Martinez was shipped out on loan to Oxford United.
Joining Arsenal in just 2010, the talented shotstopper had not made his mark at the club yet, which is why they were happy to send him on loan.
Did Emi Martinez play any games for Oxford United?
The man who lifted the World Cup while saving Argentina’s blushes in another penalty shootout did indeed play one game for Oxford United.
However, it was their final game of the campaign in a 3-0 defeat to Port Vale.
While Lionel Messi was busy staking his claim for being the greatest player of all time in perhaps the finest calendar year in his career, Emi Martinez did in fact play in League Two.
Taking that into consideration, it is ridiculous how a decade later he is playing in the Premier League and lifting a World Cup, while being described as the side’s “best player” by former pros such as Jose Enrique (via Instagram).
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