Emiliano Martinez has become a leader at Aston Villa over the last few seasons.
He’s also grown in stature himself and commands more influence than he used to, as he now plays in the Champions League a couple of years after winning the FIFA World Cup with Argentina.
Despite some comments from his father about moving to where the sunshine is, Martinez himself hasn’t been one to throw his Aston Villa future into doubt. In a chat with L’Equipe, the goalkeeper has now revealed his desire to stay at the Birmingham club.
He made it clear that he wants to repay them for the faith they showed in him.
“Earlier in my career, when I was on loan, I couldn’t express myself as much, although I’ve always been very mature.
“Since arriving at Aston Villa, I’ve embraced these new responsibilities. That’s why I’m staying loyal to this club, it’s allowed me to reach a higher level.”
The 32-year-old also spoke about his relationship with Aston Villa boss Unai Emery, revealing that he likes to play a leadership role in the club’s dressing room.
“My coaches also send a lot of positive vibes, by giving the players freedom. Lionel Scaloni doesn’t intervene when the players speak, while Unai Emery likes to take the initiative. He lowers the pressure, and I always speak after him.
“Before big games, I remind the guys where they come from, the sacrifices they’ve made and the dreams they had as kids.”
Martinez is certainly known for his antics on the pitch and he also disclosed the fact that he often does those things to take the pressure off his teammates.
“In the dressing room, I never shout, I support. I like to take the pressure from the opposing fans so that my teammates can play freely.
“With the strikers, I bet watches that I will have more clean sheets than they will score goals. Pushing my guys in a good spirit is the best way to push myself.”
On Wednesday, Monchi spoke about Martinez being something of a symbol of the club and it seems that the player himself sees it similarly.
