Chelsea complete signing of Emiliano Martínez from Aston Villa
By Joel Masibo, August 30, 2026Chelsea have confirmed the arrival of Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez from Premier League rivals Aston Villa, adding another highly experienced option between the posts.
The 33-year-old has put pen to paper on a three-year contract with the Blues after an impressive spell at Villa Park. Martínez arrives at Stamford Bridge with a World Cup winner’s medal and considerable experience at both club and international level.
Speaking after completing the move on Sunday, August 30, 2026, Martínez expressed his excitement about beginning a new chapter in west London.
“I’m delighted to be at this football club,’ Martinez said. ‘Coming to Chelsea, for me and my family, was an easy decision to make and I’m just over the moon – I can’t wait to get started,” he said.
“I want to be successful here. I’m someone who wants to win at everything I do and I want to bring that here to this football club because it’s a football club that wins titles, so I think it’s a good match.”
The Argentine also underlined the intensity and commitment he intends to bring to his new club.
“I’m all passion and I play with my heart. I will give 100 per cent every game, every training session to make the club, my teammates and the supporters proud.” He added.
Martínez’s journey to Stamford Bridge
Martínez began his football education at Independiente before moving to Arsenal in August 2010 when he was only 17.
His early years in England involved a series of loan spells as he sought regular first-team football. His breakthrough at Arsenal eventually came during the 2019/20 season, when he took over in goal and started the club’s final 11 matches.
He played a key role as Arsenal won the FA Cup that campaign before adding the Community Shield to his honours early in the following season.
In September 2020, Martínez joined Aston Villa, where he quickly established himself as a dependable Premier League goalkeeper.
Across six seasons with the Midlands club, he made 256 appearances and helped Villa secure the UEFA Europa League in May 2026.
International success
Martínez has also enjoyed an outstanding career with Argentina.
He made his senior international debut in June 2021 and subsequently became his country’s established first-choice goalkeeper. He has collected 67 caps for La Albiceleste and has been part of one of the most successful periods in Argentina’s recent history.
His international trophy cabinet includes Copa América triumphs in 2021 and 2024, as well as the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
His performances at the highest level have also earned individual recognition. Martínez won the Yashin Trophy at the 2023 and 2024 Ballon d’Or ceremonies, an award presented to the world’s best-performing goalkeeper.
Chelsea will now hope the experienced shot-stopper can bring his leadership, winning mentality and big-game experience to their squad as they target further success.
Martínez becomes the latest addition to a Chelsea side looking to compete for major honours, with the Argentine goalkeeper beginning his new chapter at Stamford Bridge.