Aston Villa Have Decided To Retain Their Big Match Winner This Season: Is It The Right Decision From The Lions | OneFootball

According to Football Insider, Aston Villa manager Unai Emery does not want to let Emiliano Martinez leave Villa Park in the final days of the summer transfer window. At the end of last season, it looked like Martinez might leave the club, but no transfer has materialised so far.

The 32-year-old Argentina international played in Villa’s defeat to Brentford on Saturday; however, Brentford had a goal controversially ruled out. Martinez has previously made his intentions clear to stay at Villa, particularly after he turned down a huge offer from the Saudi Pro League. Emery sees Martinez as a key part of his plans and wants to keep him at the club for this season.

Martinez’s situation at the end of last season and at the start of this season

There was a lot of speculation surrounding Emiliano Martinez in the final days of the 2024-25 season. In particular, his emotional expressions after his red card in the last league match against Manchester United indicated that he might leave Villa Park.

BRENTFORD, ENGLAND – AUGUST 23: Emiliano Martínez of Aston Villa during the Premier League match between Brentford and Aston Villa at Gtech Community Stadium on August 23, 2025 in Brentford, England. (Photo by Steve Bardens/Getty Images)

Since then, Manchester United have tried to take him on loan, but the Lions quickly turned it down. In addition, European clubs such as Atletico Madrid and AC Milan have also shown interest in Martinez. Meanwhile, the Argentine has stated his preference to play in Europe and has also turned down lucrative offers from Saudi Arabia. Villa have had to sell some players due to the club’s financial regulations, which has further cast doubt on Martinez’s future.

Is this Villa decision right or not?

The decision to keep Emiliano Martinez at the club is a great one for Aston Villa. He has not only proven his worth as a world-class goalkeeper but also brings experience and leadership to the team. Despite rumours of his departure at the end of last season, Martinez’s staying with the club is a huge benefit to Emery’s team.

An experienced player like him, and one with a winning mentality, is very important for a team playing in the Europa League. Although some have questioned his behaviour, his ability on the field is undeniable. Villa have eased some of the financial pressure by selling Jacob Ramsey. Therefore, retaining a key player in the team, especially when they have gained financial stability, is a strategic and important move.