Samir Nasri admitted in 2024 that Emiliano Martinez’s on-field behaviour “annoys” him, insisting the Aston Villa goalkeeper was never like that during his early Arsenal days.
The former Arsenal midfielder reflected on Martinez’s transformation from a shy young prospect in north London to one of football’s most provocative personalities.
Nasri’s comments came amid Martinez’s growing reputation for mind games and animated celebrations following decisive performances for club and country.
Samir Nasri explains why Emi Martinez’s behaviour annoys him
Speaking in 2024, Nasri told Cana Plus (h/t GOAL): “His behaviour annoys me because he wasn’t like that before.
“I knew him when he was very young at Arsenal, he was very shy. And now, this behaviour has become his stock in trade.”
Nasri’s frustration centres on what he sees as a deliberate shift in Martinez’s persona. During their time at Arsenal, Martinez was viewed as reserved and hardworking, fighting for opportunities behind more established goalkeepers.
Since leaving Arsenal and establishing himself at Aston Villa, particularly after Argentina’s World Cup triumph, Martinez has embraced a more confrontational approach. That transformation has drawn both praise and criticism across Europe.
Samir Nasri criticises Emi Martinez’s shushing celebrations
Nasri also took issue with Martinez’s habit of gesturing toward opposition supporters after big saves, saying, “You stop a shot on goal, you don’t need to abuse the opposition by telling them to ‘shh’. He doesn’t need to do that.
“With his decisive save on [Randal] Kolo Muani, the penalty shootout against France, again this evening… he doesn’t need to say ‘shh’ for people to talk about him.”
The reference to Kolo Muani recalled Martinez’s crucial contribution during Argentina’s dramatic 2022 World Cup final win, a moment that elevated his global profile. For Nasri, however, the save itself should have been enough without additional gestures.
Martinez’s psychological edge has become part of his identity. Supporters argue it unsettles opponents and adds to his aura, while critics believe it crosses a line.
Nasri’s view reflects a broader debate within football about where confidence ends and provocation begins. What is clear is that Martinez’s personality, as much as his goalkeeping, continues to command attention.
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