Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez has opened up after a memorable win over former club Arsenal on Sunday night.
Villa upset the odds once again over the weekend as they completely outplayed Arsenal to win 3-0 at the Emirates Stadium.
A Bukayo Saka own goal and a brace from Ollie Watkins picked up all three points for Dean Smith’s men.
And on his return to north London, £20m summer signing Martinez admits it was a joy to beat his former club after they were left with no option but to sell him a few months ago.
“I am a little bit emotional, to be honest with you,” Martinez said at full-time.
“Two months ago, I was lifting two trophies with them and I had been at Arsenal for 10 years.
“When I play against them now I just want to win. I am a winner. I am Argentinian. I respect them.”
Ahead of the game, Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta insisted that he had no regrets about selling Martinez as it was the best move for the club and the player.
“When we sat down and we believed it was the right thing to do,” said the Spaniard. he was still very willing to get the No 1 shirt and play regularly.
“I think we had to give him the choice to decide where he wanted to play.
“He has earned a lot of respect in this country, he has been here for ten years and with his performances for us in the last few months.
“He believed it was the right club for him so I was happy to let him go and make the right decision for his career.
“He has become really hungry, really competitive and really clear about what he wanted to do in the next chapter of his career, so I am sure he will be a success.”
