Aston Villa manager Unai Emery has offered a worrying injury update – revealing his side could be without first-choice keeper Emiliano Martinez for Saturday’s clash with Premier League leaders Arsenal.
Argentine keeper Martinez withdrew from Villa’s midweek victory at Brighton after picking up a back injury.
The 33-year-old World Cup winner remains a doubt for this weekend.
It now seems unlikely he will be fit to face former club Arsenal, handing a major blow to Villa and Unai Emery.
After a difficult start to the season, Villa have climbed to third in the Premier League table.
With five wins in their last six, their form has brought them to within six points of Saturday’s opponents.
A win this weekend would therefore take them to within three points of the league leaders.
But it appears they may need to do so without their number one shot-stopper between the sticks.
Unai Emery Delivers Aston Villa Injury Update
Speaking ahead of Saturday’s clash at Villa Park, Unai Emery explained the situation with Martinez.
He said: “We train this afternoon and he didn’t train yesterday. It’s very important for him how these passing hours (go), if he is feeling better.
“Until the last moment I don’t know if he is going to be available or not for tomorrow.”
Also missing will be Tyrone Mings and Ross Barkley, with Emery confirming Barkley’s injury could keep him out for up to to 12 weeks.
Aston Villa Ready For Arsenal Test
But despite missing some key men, Villa have been in excellent form.
They have seven wins in eight across all competitions, but face their toughest test yet on Saturday.
Discussing Arsenal, Emry said: “Arsenal are the best team until now and of course the favourites to win this trophy in the Premier League because they are competing fantastically and playing fantastic.
“Tomorrow is really a huge test, collectively and individually.
“For me as a coach as well. I am delighted to have this opportunity to play tomorrow against Arsenal, with the level they have and with the level we have achieved over the last month.”
Unai provided a team news update in his press conference this afternoon ⤵️
— Aston Villa (@AVFCOfficial) December 5, 2025
Villa have lost just once in their last four meetings with Arsenal, winning two and drawing their most recent fixture.
“The players must feel comfortable, must feel confidence to play with their form, and with their focus in the gameplan we will plan tomorrow, because the gameplan is very important,” Emery added.
“To compete against the opponent, firstly, you need to know the opponent. And after to know the opponent, you can try to make a plan, how you can beat them.
“But at the end, football is for the players. On the field are the players, with their skills, their wishes, their emotions, with their competitive way, their focus for 90 minutes, and don’t lose, don’t disturb nothing.”
