Emiliano Martínez transfer news has taken a twist after Argentina boss Lionel Scaloni weighed in on the Aston Villa goalkeeper’s uncertain future. The 32-year-old appeared to wave goodbye in tears after Villa’s final home game last season, sparking talk of a move to Manchester United. But with that deal stalling and Unai Emery visibly agitated over questions at the weekend, Martínez remains in limbo.
Scaloni has now urged caution, admitting he wants his No.1 to play regularly but refusing to speculate on what comes next. “We’ll see if Dibu loses continuity at his club… we want him to play. But it’s not my decision,” Scaloni told TyC Sports.
Will Villa’s World Cup hero fight for his place again under Emery, or will this saga lead to a fresh push for a move in January?
The Villa Drama
Martínez’s emotional farewell in May left fans convinced he was heading out of Villa Park. Manchester United were widely tipped as his destination, with reports in Argentina suggesting a deal was close. But negotiations dragged, and the Red Devils ultimately turned their focus elsewhere.
Now Emery faces a delicate decision. He has Marco Bizot as an option and reacted testily when pressed on Martínez’s status. For a player who has been so central to Villa’s rise under Emery, the stand-off feels unsustainable.
Scaloni’s Stance
Argentina manager Scaloni knows the importance of Martínez to the Albiceleste. His penalty heroics at the 2022 World Cup turned him into a national icon, and he remains the undisputed No.1 heading into the 2026 qualifiers.
“We’ll see if Dibu loses continuity at his club… if he stays, everything will continue as normal. We want him to play. But it’s not my decision.” — Lionel Scaloni, via TyC Sports
For Scaloni, match sharpness is key as Martínez chases Argentina’s clean sheet record — a target the keeper has admitted he is “obsessed” with.
Emiliano Martínez Stats Snapshot (Aston Villa 2024/25)
| Stat (2024/25) | Emiliano Martínez |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 41 |
| Clean Sheets | 14 |
| Saves Made | 119 |
| Save Percentage | 71% |
source: sofascore match data – 2 September 2025
The stats highlight why United and other top clubs were circling — Martínez remains one of Europe’s most reliable goalkeepers.
Analyst Verdict — John William
Martínez’s situation is awkward but far from terminal. Emery may yet reinstate him, knowing his experience and reliability are unmatched. But if trust has been lost, January could bring fresh movement. United’s interest shows his market remains strong, and top clubs will pounce if Villa leave him in limbo.
For Argentina, Scaloni’s comments underline how crucial Martínez is. Even if sidelined, he will remain No.1 for now — but prolonged absence at club level risks damaging rhythm ahead of the World Cup cycle.
Key Insights
- Martínez’s tears in May hinted at Villa exit, but United deal collapsed.
- Emery frustrated by questions, leaning on Marco Bizot.
- Scaloni says he wants Martínez to keep playing but won’t speculate.
- Keeper chasing Argentina’s all-time clean sheet record.
- January could revive transfer interest if limbo continues.
What’s Next for Martínez and Villa?
Villa face a critical run of fixtures in September, and Emery must decide whether to restore Martínez or stick with alternatives. The goalkeeper’s professionalism means bridges could still be rebuilt, but the uncertainty remains.
For Martínez, the focus will shift to Argentina duty in qualifiers. His quest for the clean sheet record could keep him motivated while waiting for clarity at club level.
Will Emiliano Martínez win back his Aston Villa place — or force a January move to keep his Argentina career on track?
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