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Emiliano Martínez claims his movement of Arsenal at Aston Villa is a “step forward” in his career, as he points to international success with Argentina.
The 28-year-old moved to Villa Park for £ 20 million this summer after proving himself on the Gunners’ first team in last season’s finale.
Martinez seized the opportunity Bernd Leno’s injury afforded him and impressed Arsenal when they won the FA Cup and then the Community Shield.
With Leno back from injury, Martinez’s place was threatened and he decided to make the switch to Villa, who he believes is actually a step up from his time at the Emirates.
“I’m in the best shape of my career and when I wasn’t sure of that playing time, I wasn’t sure about staying,” Martinez told Sky Sports. ‘I’m fighting to be number one in Argentina, that’s my dream.
“Aston Villa is a huge club, I had no doubts about coming here. Everyone thinks it is a step back to go from Arsenal to Villa, but actually I think it is a step forward in my career.
Martinez joined Arsenal in 2010 and continually battled for a first-team spot, coming out on six loan assignments over the years.
Now he enjoys being the undisputed number one with Villa, winning his first two league games with his new team, without conceding a goal.
“People don’t realize how much I’ve been struggling to get on the bench. I had nine goalkeepers in front of me, ‘explained the stopper.
‘Once on the bench, he wanted to be number one. Once I got the number one jersey, and I wasn’t sure if I would keep it, I said I would go and be number one.
“ My ambition has always been to try to be number one at Arsenal, getting to their academy was not easy. People who speak outside of football don’t know anything about football.
“I want to be in Europe with Villa next season. Everyone at the club believes we can have a great season, which drives me. We have two wins on the rebound so we have nothing to lose against Liverpool.
“If you want to achieve something in the league you have to beat the best, which is what we will try to do on Sunday.”
Martinez’s clean sheet record will be threatened Sunday night when Aston Villa host Premier League champions Liverpool.
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