Aston Villa goalkeeper Emi Martinez has revealed that he played the Carabao Cup final with a broken finger, disclosing the injury after the team's triumphant victory. The Argentine shot-stopper, known for his crucial saves, admitted that the injury occurred during the match but he chose to continue playing through the pain.
Martinez's Revelation
Speaking after the final whistle, Martinez said, "It went the other way. I broke my finger during the game, but I didn't want to come off. The team needed me, and I wanted to help us win." The goalkeeper's determination and bravery were praised by fans and teammates alike, as he made several key saves despite the injury.
Impact on Performance
Despite the broken finger, Martinez's performance was not noticeably affected. He made crucial stops to keep Aston Villa in the game, ultimately helping them secure the trophy. The injury was kept secret until after the match, with only the medical staff aware of the extent of the problem.
Martinez added, "I knew if I told anyone, they would have taken me off. I just focused on the game and tried to do my job. It's a bit swollen now, but it's all worth it."
Team Reaction
Aston Villa manager Unai Emery praised Martinez's commitment, stating, "Emi is a warrior. He showed incredible character to play through such an injury. This victory means so much to us, and his contribution was immense." Teammates also expressed admiration, with captain John McGinn calling Martinez "the best goalkeeper in the world."
Looking Ahead
Martinez is now set to undergo treatment for the broken finger, with the club's medical team assessing the best course of action. The injury is not expected to keep him out for an extended period, and he is likely to be fit for Aston Villa's upcoming matches. The victory in the Carabao Cup final marks a significant achievement for the club, and Martinez's heroics will be remembered as a key part of their success.
