Alejandro Martinez has spoken about Man United's interest in his brother in the final knockings of the summer window
Aston Villa goalkeeper Emi Martinez
Aston Villa goalkeeper Emi Martinez
Emi Martinez’s brother, Alejandro, has denied any rift between the goalkeeper and Aston Villa manager Unai Emery, despite the turbulent end to the summer transfer window.
Emery chose to leave Martinez out of the squad for last weekend’s match against Crystal Palace, believing the Argentina international was not in the right frame of mind to play.
Manchester United had shown interest in signing Martinez during the final 48 hours of the window, but ultimately opted to pursue Senne Lammens instead.
Martinez had been open to a move away from Villa this summer, but he will now remain at the club and is set to return to Bodymoor Heath next week after representing Argentina in the September internationals.
"These are decisions made by club directors,” Alejandro told DSports Radio about United’s interest in his brother. “It didn't happen, but it's like everything commercial. The sporting aspect was left aside, and everything is fine.
"Emi never had an argument with Unai. It was all left to the directors, and the clubs couldn't agree."
He added: "At Aston Villa, he's the Diego of Napoli. He gave a lot at Villa, like Agüero did at City, like Messi did at Barça. They're legendary players, and it's going to be hard to top what he did at Aston Villa.
"They told me that Emi gave a lot as a professional and as a person. They love him, and it showed on the field. He's beloved, and the management didn't want to sell him because he's a key player for the team and another team wanted him. It was that trade dispute.”
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