As Aston Villa gears up for one of its biggest European matches in years, all eyes aren’t just on the football—they’re also on Emi Martinez.
The Argentine goalkeeper, known for his bold personality and World Cup-winning antics, is heading into Wednesday’s Champions League clash against Paris Saint-Germain with a target on his back… and a statement on his head.
Martinez showed up in France wearing a cap proudly displaying his four international titles—a move that’s likely to ruffle feathers in a city still stinging from Argentina’s 2022 World Cup win over France.
But if you thought that might make him nervous, think again.
Tielemans Shrugs Off the Heat and Backs His Teammate
Villa midfielder Youri Tielemans made it clear he’s not losing sleep over the reception Martinez is about to get in Paris.
“I honestly don’t care,” he said, cool as ever. “We’re here to play football.
Whatever noise comes Emi’s way, as long as it stays respectful, we’re just focused on the game.”
Tielemans also brushed off the idea that Martinez might be rattled.
In his eyes, the goalkeeper is as calm and confident as ever.
“He’s got the same vibe as always—no big speeches, no drama. He’s just dialed in and ready.”
Underdogs with a Mastermind Manager
Let’s not forget: Villa aren’t just going into this match with heart—they’ve got a tactical genius on their side. Unai Emery, the man with a serious European pedigree, is leading the charge.
Emery has done this dance before. He’s reached Champions League semis with Villarreal and lifted the Europa League trophy four times.
So, while Villa might not be favorites, they’ve got something PSG should be worried about: belief.
“He knows what it takes,” Tielemans said. “He’s got a plan. We’re ready.”
Emery Remembers the Pain—and Uses It
For Emery, this matchup with PSG comes with a little emotional baggage.
The last time he squared off against current PSG boss Luis Enrique, it ended in heartbreak.
Emery’s PSG squad had a 4-0 lead after the first leg in 2017… and then got knocked out in shocking fashion when Enrique’s Barcelona pulled off a 6-1 miracle at the Nou Camp.
But Emery’s not living in the past. He’s focused on the now—and on guiding Martinez through the storm.
“He’s Grown So Much” – Emery Praises Martinez’s Maturity
Emery spoke about Martinez with nothing but confidence and a touch of admiration.
The Argentine shot-stopper, now 32, has come a long way since joining Villa in 2020.
“He’s more mature now,” Emery said. “He’s learned how to manage his emotions.
He’s a better keeper, and he’s learning how to carry the weight of everything that comes with success.”
As the atmosphere builds in Paris, Martinez isn’t just walking into a stadium—he’s walking into the lion’s den.
But with his team behind him and his head held high, don’t expect him to back down.
If anything, this might be just the kind of chaos he thrives in.