Former Arsenal star David Seaman has claimed that he was annoyed by Emiliano Martinez’s departure from the club this summer.
The Argentine completed a move to Aston Villa this week after both clubs reached an agreement in a deal said to be worth £17 million.
New challenge, thanks @AVFCOfficial for your trust in me 💪 Nuevo reto, gracias Aston Villa por su confianza 💪 pic.twitter.com/6NzJqBDVg0
— Emi Martínez (@emimartinezz1) September 16, 2020
The goalkeeper moved to the Villa Park in search of enough playing time after refusing to be guaranteed assurances over regular playing time at the Emirates Stadium.
Martinez got his chance represent Arsenal in goal following a season-ending injury to the Gunners’ first choice Bernd Leno against Brighton & Hove Albion last season.
Restored as a replacement, Martinez helped Mikel Arteta’s team to a strong finish to the Premier League campaign while also playing a part as they won the FA Cup over London rivals Chelsea and also begun the 2020/21 campaign with a Community Shield win over Liverpool last month.
However, the return of the German goalkeeper means that the 28-year-old would be back to his position as just a back up, a spot he is uncomfortable with and has moved on to join Dean Smith side, where he will become the club’s No.1.
Seaman understands the player’s decision to go out in search of regular playing time, but was keen for him to stay with the north London outfit,
“We’ve just sold the goalkeeper (Martinez) as well which was a little bit puzzling for me. He had a great end of last season and started this season really well,” the Arsenal legend told talkSPORT. “It was something that I thought Arsenal would keep hold of him because he showed what he could do. The fact he went to Villa it did annoy me.
“I wanted two great goalkeepers at Arsenal because it means they bring the best out of each other, but he wants to be a number one and I think that’s what has decided it.”
