The Aston Villa shot-stopper has seen his stock soar in recent times, with his ability between the sticks having never been in question. He has forged a reputation as a penalty-saving specialist, with that skill set allowing him to play crucial roles in World Cup and Copa America triumphs for his country
THE BIGGER PICTURE
Martinez’s antics can, however, rub some up the wrong way. France, and Kylian Mbappe in particular, were on the receiving end at Qatar 2022, while many more domestic, continental and global rivals have found cause to pick fault with the 32-year-old’s behaviour.
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WHAT BIANCONE SAID
Biancone did get one over on Martinez and Co last season, as his Olympiacos side dashed Villa’s Europa Conference League dreams at the semi-final stage, and he has told 90Football of wrestling bragging rights away from a player that divides opinion: “I find him very arrogant. What I didn’t like about Martínez’s behaviour was the lack of respect. The result made me happy because I made my French friends happy.”
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WHAT NEXT?
Olympiacos went on to make history in 2023-24 when becoming the first Greek club to win a major European trophy. Martinez is still waiting on honours at Villa, with Unai Emery’s side preparing to join the Champions League ranks in 2024-25.
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