Chelsea have strengthened their squad ahead of the new season by signing Argentina goalkeeperEmiliano Martinez from Aston Villa on a three-year contract.
The 33-year-old was a key member of Argentina’s World Cup-winning squad in 2022 and has established himself as one of the world’s leading goalkeepers. Chelsea have brought him in to add experience and quality to their goalkeeping department.
Martinez expressed his delight at joining the London club and said the decision was an easy one for both him and his family.
“I am very happy to join this football club. Coming to Chelsea was an easy decision for me and my family. I’m really happy and cannot wait to get started,” Martinez said.
The Argentine also made it clear that he has arrived at Chelsea with ambitions of winning trophies.
“I want to be successful here. I am someone who wants to win in everything I do, and I want to bring that mentality to this football club,” he said. “Chelsea are a club that win trophies, so I think we are a very good match.”
Martinez began his career in the youth setup of Argentine club Independiente before moving to Arsenal in August 2010 at the age of 17. He spent several periods on loan before establishing himself in Arsenal’s first team during the 2019–20 season.
He played the final 11 matches of that campaign and helped Arsenal win the FA Cup. He also won the Community Shield at the beginning of the following season before joining Aston Villa in September 2020.
During six seasons at Villa, Martinez developed into one of the Premier League’s most prominent goalkeepers, making 256 appearances for the club. He also helped Villa win the Europa League in May this year.
At international level, Martinez made his Argentina debut in June 2021 and has since become the national team’s first-choice goalkeeper. He has made 67 appearances for the Albiceleste.
During his international career, Martinez has helped Argentina win two Copa America titles and, most notably, the 2022 FIFA World Cup—the country’s third World Cup triumph.
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