Aston Villa manager Unai Emery expressed confidence in goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez’s ability to handle the anticipated hostile reception from fans during the Champions League quarter-final against Paris St-Germain. Martinez’s previous actions, including his antics during the 2022 World Cup final and displaying a Kylian Mbappe doll, have angered French supporters. Despite this, Emery believes Martinez has matured and is more capable of controlling his emotions. Team-mate Youri Tielemans also commented that as long as Martinez remains respectful, the focus should be on playing the game. Martinez’s cap featured emblems representing Argentina’s recent victories in football.
Aston Villa’s manager Unai Emery is confident that “mature” goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez will be able to manage the unfriendly reception anticipated during Wednesday’s Champions League quarter-final against Paris St-Germain.
Martinez stirred up animosity among French fans with his behavior during the penalty shootout that secured Argentina’s victory in the 2022 World Cup final in Qatar, where his crucial save from Kingsley Coman played a pivotal role.
He later drew additional ire by showcasing a Kylian Mbappe doll during the celebratory parade in Buenos Aires following Argentina’s triumph.
Additionally, he was photographed on Tuesday donning a cap featuring a French cockerel while also displaying symbols of Argentina’s recent successes as he prepared to travel to Paris for the quarter-final first leg at Parc des Princes.
Martinez’s most recent actions, which were discussed in-depth at the pre-match media conference with Emery, are expected to amplify the pressure on the 32-year-old ahead of the clash with PSG.
However, Emery is confident that Martinez can handle the intensity. He stated, “He is mature. He is responsible. He is improving at managing his emotions. I worked with him at Arsenal before I came to Aston Villa.
“I believe that from when he joined Aston Villa five years ago to now, he has transformed into a different Emiliano.
“He is now more mature. He has evolved into a better player and goalkeeper, and my ongoing conversations with him reflect that. He is among the best goalkeepers in the world—he received recognition for it here in Paris.”
Emery further remarked: “Now, he should focus on football, hone in on individual challenges, and manage all that he is achieving and the milestones he is surpassing. It’s important to regulate his emotions.”
When questioned about Martinez’s cap, teammate Youri Tielemans replied, “I don’t really mind. I’m just here to play the game. Whatever happens with Emi, as long as it remains respectful within the context of football, it doesn’t concern me.”
Martinez’s cap displayed symbols representing Argentina’s four notable victories: the World Cup, two Copa Americas, and the Finalissima, which featured the Copa America champions against the European Champions, culminating in a 3-0 win over Italy in 2022.