Emiliano Martínez has impressed for Aston Villa ever since he joined them from Arsenal in 2020.
The goalkeeper’s displays for the club helped him make his debut for Argentina in 2021. He’s since won the World Cup and the Copa América on two occasions with the national team.
The Aston Villa star first arrived in Europe when Arsenal signed him from Club Atlético Independiente in 2010.
He joined Independiente’s academy in 2008, when Miguel Ángel Santoro was their first-team manager.
Prior to that, Argentina’s two top teams, Boca Juniors and River Plate, had opportunities to sign the now 32-year-old. This has been revealed by Santoro during a chat with TNT Sports.
Santoro, who was a goalkeeper, made more than 300 appearances for Independiente. He also managed the club on four different occasions between 1980 and 2009.
The South American club’s icon is pleased with the career Martínez has had so far. He’s also delighted the Aston Villa player has high regards for his former club.
“He’s having a sensational time. He was a kid who came to Independiente with all the hope. He cried and worked hard to reach the top. He represents Independiente worldwide and at the World Cup he showed all his greatness,” Santoro explained.
“Martínez is the goalkeeper of Argentine history, there is no other who has won what he won.”
Martínez has kept one clean sheet and conceded seven goals from six matches for Unai Emery’s side this season.
