Unai Emery says Emi Martínez asked to leave Aston Villa
Emi Martínez asked Aston Villa to let him leave, Unai Emery confirmed on August 23, 2026. The World Cup-winning goalkeeper wants a new challenge to fight for major titles. Villa signed Japan keeper Zion Suzuki for up to €35 million as cover, while Juventus chose Guglielmo Vicario after price talks failed. Martínez remains under contract until 2029.
Key Takeaways
- Unai Emery said Emi Martínez requested a transfer for a new career challenge, repeating a wish he had last season.
- Aston Villa signed Zion Suzuki from Parma for up to €35 million to prepare for Martínez's possible departure.
- Juventus passed on Martínez and landed Guglielmo Vicario on loan from Tottenham with a €10.5 million purchase option.
- Villa set a minimum fee of €15 million; Juventus would not meet Aston Villa's valuation.
- The transfer window closes September 1, 2026, leaving Martínez's immediate future unresolved.
Why Did Emi Martínez Ask to Leave Aston Villa?
Unai Emery addressed the situation in a press conference ahead of Aston Villa's Premier League opener at Brighton. The Spanish coach said Martínez "transmitted the possibility of having another challenge in his career," adding that the goalkeeper had considered leaving last season but stayed and delivered a "fantastic" performance.
Emery explained Villa's response: "This year, again, he transmitted the possibility of having another challenge, and we decided to sign Suzuki because I think he is a fantastic goalkeeper in case Martínez leaves."
Martínez renewed in August 2024 through mid-2029, according to ESPN Deportes. He has made 256 appearances for Villa since arriving in 2020 and helped the club win the UEFA Europa League.
What Does the Zion Suzuki Signing Signal?
Aston Villa confirmed the signing of Japan international Zion Suzuki from Parma in a deal worth up to €35 million, according to ESPN Deportes. Suzuki, 23, started for Japan at the 2026 World Cup and drew attention with a standout save against Brazil.
The move adds competition at goalkeeper and gives Villa a high-level replacement if Martínez exits. Suzuki will compete for the No. 1 shirt at a club returning to the UEFA Champions League.
For fans tracking how elite careers reshape lives off the pitch, major club switches often echo the timing and value questions that drive Luxury Real Estate & Dream Homes decisions—when to move, what you leave behind, and what the next chapter represents.
Why Did Juventus Choose Vicario Over Martínez?
Juventus had been linked with Martínez, but negotiations broke down over price. MUNDIARIO reported Aston Villa set a minimum fee of €15 million and would not lower its demands. Juventus instead agreed with Tottenham on a one-season loan for Guglielmo Vicario with a €10.5 million purchase option and no obligation to buy.
Vanguardia noted finger injury concerns also weighed on some suitors. With Vicario secured, Juventus closed one route Martínez may have hoped for before the window shuts on September 1.
What Happens Next Before the Transfer Window Closes?
Martínez's contract gives Aston Villa control over any sale through 2029. Emery called Villa's window "intelligent," pointing to additions including Alejandro Garnacho, Johan Manzambi, João Gomes, Matteo Ruggeri, and Aaron Wan-Bissaka alongside Suzuki.
Emery also faces uncertainty over striker Ollie Watkins after Villa rejected four Al-Hilal bids. Whether Martínez finds a club willing to meet Villa's price in the final days of the market remains the open question heading into the new season.