Aston Villa goalkeeper Emi Martinez has been given a stark lesson in the evolving demands of his position following a pair of costly mistakes in high-stakes Premier League matches. The Argentine's recent uncertainty has prompted intensive training sessions as the club seeks a rapid solution.
High-Profile Errors Prompt Extra Training
Martinez's difficulties dealing with high balls led directly to goals conceded in Villa's last two outings. First, in the match against Chelsea, his hesitation at a corner allowed the Blues to take an early lead, though Villa remarkably fought back to secure a victory. The problem repeated itself days later against league leaders Arsenal, where another set-piece lapse contributed to a heavy 4-1 defeat at home. This result allowed Mikel Arteta's side to open a six-point gap over Unai Emery's Champions League-chasing team.
In response, the World Cup winner has been putting in additional work with Villa's goalkeeper coaches. The focus is squarely on improving his command and decision-making during crosses and corners, a critical area being exploited by opponents.
Emery's Stark Warning on Modern Goalkeeping
Villa manager Unai Emery has pinpointed a broader trend impacting all top-flight goalkeepers, arguing that match officials are now interpreting challenges differently. He believes shot-stoppers receive far less protection from fouls than in previous eras, a shift that is complicating their core defensive duties.
"In the future, we will need 'keepers at 2m 20cms (7ft 2ins)," Emery remarked pointedly. "Maybe we need to get boxing gloves." He elaborated that the coaching staff, including specialist goalkeeper trainers, are working with Martinez to analyse how the game is changing.
"It is changing in the way referees interpret these situations," Emery stated. "When opponents are pushing or blocking, the referees are more or less being soft in their decision about how they want to manage it. At set pieces players are touching the 'keepers, they are pushing the 'keepers and it is not a foul. It’s becoming more difficult."
Implications for Upcoming Fixtures
This perceived vulnerability is certain to have been noted by upcoming opponents. Sean Dyche brings his Nottingham Forest side to Villa Park this Saturday, a team known for its physical and direct approach, particularly from dead-ball situations. The officiating for this crucial clash will be handled by referee Simon Hooper, whose interpretations will be watched closely by the Villa camp.
Emery acknowledged that while his team could employ similar aggressive tactics, the immediate priority is adaptation and improvement. "We need to adapt and get better at defending those situations," he concluded, signalling that set-piece defence will be a key focus on the training ground at Bodymoor Heath. The coming matches will test whether Martinez and his defenders have successfully addressed this glaring weakness.
