Emi Martinez admits he never wanted to join Arsenal

Aston Villa goalkeeper Emi Martinez
(Image credit: Getty)

Aston Villa goalkeeper Emi Martinez has revealed that he never wanted to move to Arsenal back in 2010.

The Argentine joined the Gunners from Independiente as a youngster, making 30 appearances - as well as going out on loan to six different clubs - before leaving for Villa this time last year.

However, reflecting on his early career, he insists that he "didn't want to go" to Arsenal.

"My family and my agents thought [that I should make the move]," he told Spanish newspaper El Pais (via the Mirror), adding that "the decision was made more for [my family] than anything else."

Given how well Martinez has done since making the switch to Villa - he's in the form of his life and stood out as one of the very best 'keepers in the Premier League last season - it feels like something of a strange, even bitter, revelation.

The 29-year-old is currently away on international duty with Argentina - for whom he finally made his debut in June, cementing his place as number 1 for their victorious Copa America campaign - but given these latest comments, you suspect he's rather looking forward another trip away next month: Villa's visit to the Emirates.

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