Chelsea will face Arsenal at the Emirates on Sunday, in a match considered one of the most notable matches at the beginning of the season. Both teams have won all 2 matches in the first 2 rounds of the Premier League, thereby early showing their ambition to compete in the leading group.
In the first summer under Xabi Alonso, Chelsea made up to 11 deals, with Morgan Rogers being the most expensive signing when joining Aston Villa for a record fee of 117 million pounds. However, Emiliano Martinez is the name that received much attention after his impressive debut in the 4-3 victory over Brighton.
The Argentine goalkeeper was recruited by Chelsea from Aston Villa to replace Robert Sanchez. Martinez's appearance is expected to help the West London team solve one of the positions that are often seen as weaknesses in recent seasons.
Notably, Martinez will return to Emirates this weekend. The 33-year-old goalkeeper used to wear the Arsenal shirt for 8 years and experienced a memorable period under Arteta, including the FA Cup and Community Shield championships in 2020.
Although this deal is surprising, Arteta affirmed that he is not surprised by Chelsea's decision. The Spanish strategist highly appreciates his former student.
Obviously I understand Emi very well. We have him here. He is a top goalkeeper. Obviously he will bring things to the team and I think it was a very wise decision.
The comments from Arteta further highlight the importance of Martinez in Alonso's plan. Chelsea not only added an experienced goalkeeper but also brought to Stamford Bridge a player who has won the World Cup and played for many years in the Premier League.
Meanwhile, Arteta also does not want to spend too much time with Arsenal players who cannot be recruited in the summer. He emphasized that the transfer window has closed and wants to focus on the existing force.
I want to focus on the great things we have in the squad rather than spending more time on things that currently do not belong to us," Arteta said.
For Martinez, the match at the Emirates will be a special occasion when he returns to the stadium he once played for in Arsenal's colors for the first time, but this time as an opponent.
