Emiliano Martinez remained upbeat on social media despite Aston Villa falling to a tough defeat against Paris-Saint-Germain.
Aston Villa saw their Champions League hopes dented with a 3-1 first-leg loss at the Parc des Princes on 9 April.
Morgan Rogers continuing his impressive form for Aston Villa as he gave Unai Emery’s side an early advantage with a composed finish after a slick move.
However, the lead didn’t last long. PSG responded quickly through 19-year-old Desire Doue, who curled in a stunning equaliser just before the break.
Second-half goals from Kvicha Kvaratskhelia and Nuno Mendes gave the French champions a commanding win, leaving Villa with a mountain to climb in the return leg.
Martinez, as ever, started between the sticks, but found himself in the spotlight for reasons beyond his performance.
Simon Jordan labelled Martinez as “narcissistic” after pictures shown he travelled to Paris with a cap showing all four titles he has won with Argentina.
Still, despite the defeat and media attention, the Argentine goalkeeper appeared in good spirits after the match, showing the same defiance that’s made him a key figure for both club and country.
Aston Villa’s next three matches | Date |
Southampton vs Aston Villa | 12 April |
Aston Villa vs PSG | 15 April |
Aston Villa vs Newcastle | 19 April |
Youri Tielemans and Marco Asensio back Emi Martinez after Champions League message
The goalkeeper sent out a positive message to supporters on Instagram, writing: “We can do it at home” following Aston Villa’s defeat to PSG.
Martinez’s post was met with support from teammates, with Youri Tielemans dropping an emoji and Marco Asensio, John McGinn and Amadou Onana all liking the message.
It’s been a mixed campaign for the Argentine shot-stopper, who has had to contend with instability in the backline due to a series of injuries.
Following Axel Disasi’s loan arrival in January, Martinez has seen several centre-back partnerships used—especially with Pau Torres and Tyrone Mings both spending time on the sidelines.
Despite the changes, Martinez has remained ever-present in goal. He’s made 44 appearances across all competitions so far this season, maintaining his status as Emery’s first-choice for both Champions League and FA Cup fixtures. He’s also racked up an impressive 11 clean sheets in that run.
Aston Villa eye move for Noni Madueke in summer rebuild
While hopes of European success still remain for Martinez and Emery, plans for next season are already taking shape at Villa Park.
Mick Brown, former Manchester United chief scout, told Football Insider that Aston Villa are targeting Chelsea winger Noni Madueke as part of a summer refresh in attack.
Aston Villa have received encouragement over a deal for Madueke, with the winger open to a move ahead of next season.
After seeing the progress of players like Marcus Rashford under Emery’s guidance, the English winger may view a switch to Villa as the next step in his development.
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