London, August 2026 : Chelsea have completed the signing of Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez on a three-year contract, securing the services of the Argentina international just a day before the transfer window closes.
Martinez arrives at Stamford Bridge after a successful six-year spell with Aston Villa, where he established himself as one of the Premier League’s leading goalkeepers. During his time at Villa, he helped the club win the UEFA Europa League and became an important figure both at club and international level.
The Argentine goalkeeper was a key member of Argentina’s victorious 2022 FIFA World Cup campaign and was awarded the Golden Glove after a series of outstanding performances. He also played an important role in Argentina’s run to the 2026 World Cup final, where they eventually suffered defeat against Spain.
“I’m delighted to be at this football club,” Martinez said after completing his move to Chelsea.
He added that joining Chelsea was an easy decision for both him and his family and said he was eager to begin his new chapter at the London club.
“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,” Martinez said.
The 33-year-old also stressed his commitment to Chelsea, promising to give his maximum effort in every match and training session. “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 said.
Martinez began his football journey in the youth system of Argentine club Independiente before moving to Arsenal in 2010. He spent several seasons on loan at different clubs as he sought regular first-team football and gradually developed his reputation.
His breakthrough at Arsenal came during the 2019-20 season, when he became the club’s first-choice goalkeeper for a period and played a crucial role in their FA Cup triumph.
He subsequently joined Aston Villa, where he made 213 appearances across competitions. His consistent performances helped establish him as one of the Premier League’s most dependable goalkeepers. Martinez also made his senior international debut for Argentina in 2021.
He quickly became Argentina’s first-choice goalkeeper and played a decisive role in the country’s 2022 World Cup success. His dramatic saves, particularly during the final against France, proved crucial as Argentina secured the trophy.
Martinez’s individual performances have also earned widespread recognition. He was named the world’s best-performing goalkeeper at the 2023 and 2024 Ballon d’Or ceremonies, underlining his status among the elite players in his position.
Chelsea’s acquisition of Martinez adds significant experience and international pedigree to their goalkeeping department as the club looks to challenge for major honours in the coming season.
