Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez admitted he was caught off guard by a goal from Thomas Partey during Arsenal’s 2-0 win at Villa Park.
Partey’s strike, ten minutes after Leandro Trossard’s opener, helped Arsenal maintain their perfect start to the Premier League season.
In a tightly contested match, Trossard, who came on as a substitute, made an immediate impact by scoring with his first touch, putting Arsenal ahead. Shortly after, Partey added a second goal, capitalizing on a mistake by Martinez.
The Argentine goalkeeper revealed that he did not initially recognize the shot came from Partey until after the ball had already crossed the line.
“I tried my best to save it. I didn’t know it was a shot from Partey until I raised my head after the ball went in.
He’s one of the best midfielders in the league,” Martinez said in a post-match interview.
Partey’s goal was his first Premier League strike since March 2023 and significantly contributed to Arsenal’s victory.
Despite summer transfer speculation, the Ghanaian midfielder has proven his value in the opening games of the season, reinforcing his role in Mikel Arteta’s squad.
Arsenal, aiming for their first Premier League title in two decades, will rely heavily on Partey’s performances as the season progresses.
