Lionel Messi has praised Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez after Argentina’s 3-0 win over Uruguay, describing him ‘one of the best goalkeepers in the world’.
The former Arsenal keeper made two superb saves to keep out Luis Suarez in the first half before goals from Messi, Rodrigo De Paul and Lautaro Martinez wrapped up the win on Sunday.
Martinez was a heroic figure for Argentina in their run to Copa America triumph in the summer, saving three penalties in the shootout win over Colombia in the semi-finals.
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And after another outstanding performance for his country, PSG forward Messi hailed his ‘fundamental’ team-mate.
‘Dibu [Emiliano] Martinez is fundamental,’ said Messi, via TNT Sports. ‘When they come to him, he always responds. He established himself in goal and we have one of the best goalkeepers in the world.’
Martinez has gone from strength to strength since leaving Arsenal in the summer of 2020 to join Villa.
The 29-year-old spent 10 years at the Emirates and was sent out on six different loan spells before getting a real opportunity in the first team.
That chance came when Bernd Leno got injured at the end of the 2019-20 season, and Martinez took full advantage – producing a number of top displays between the sticks.
But, he couldn’t be given the assurances over playing time, so he made the switch to Villa Park in a deal worth £20m.
The Argentine keeper excelled in his first campaign at the Midlands club, and has started the new season with three clean sheets in six matches.
Meanwhile, the London side signed Aaron Ramsdale in the summer to provide competition for Leno.
But the England star has established himself as Mikel Arteta’s first-choice ‘keeper already, having started in the club’s last four Premier League matches.
