Aston Villa have had one of their players assessed by Lionel Messi, as the Argentine shared his verdict on Emi Martinez.
The 2023/24 campaign was a memorable one for Aston Villa, who achieved their goal of securing Champions League football.
A host of Unai Emery’s players had outstanding individual campaigns in order to guide Villa over the line, with Emi Martinez being a huge part of the success.
From his heroics in the Europa Conference League quarter-final to his presence in the squad in general, Villa wouldn’t be where they are without Martinez.
Lionel Messi calls Aston Villa goalkeeper Emi Martinez the world’s best
Currently on international duty preparing for the Copa America, Martinez has received high praise from Lionel Messi.
The eight-time Ballon D’Or winner sat down with ESPN for an interview and took the time to share his verdict on his international teammate.
“For me he is the best goalkeeper in the world. He has been showing it in his club and in the National Team.”
Messi went on to praise Martinez for the role he played at Aston Villa over the 2023/24 campaign.
“He was key in his team and achieved the goal of entering the Champions League. I have no doubt that a large part of the credit is thanks to him.”
It’s praise indeed from Messi, who also shared his appreciation for the Villa ‘keeper’s heroics in the World Cup final against France.
Everyone is aware of the quality of Emery’s number one and now, the Villa boss will be hopeful of having the shot-stopper back at the club as soon as possible.
Martinez has a busy summer ahead on international duty
Martinez is set for a riveting summer, as he first takes on the Copa America with Argentina, with a decision yet to be made on whether he can also go to the Olympics.
Villa blocked their players from competing at the Olympics, with the goalkeeper making his desire known as he wishes to represent his country in the two summer tournaments.
It’s understandable that Argentina are eager to have Martinez available for both tournaments although, Villa are in the same situation.
If the World Cup winners were to reach the latter stages of the Olympics, the Villa man would miss the club’s pre-season plans, something that Emery would hope to avoid.
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