Youri Tielemans reacts to Emi Martinez’s ‘the end’ post amid Aston Villa exit news
Emi Martinez immediately took to social media after Aston Villa secured a crucial victory against Fulham at Villa Park.
Despite an incredible run of results in recent weeks, losses in important matches have led to Champions League and FA Cup knockouts, and the Villans could now miss out on the elite European competition next term.
Unai Emery‘s side finally got back to winning ways against Fulham on Saturday, 3 May, however, after back-to-back defeats, moving them within touching distance of a top-five finish.
Youri Tielemans scored the only goal of the game at Villa Park, though Ollie Watkins was bashed by Paul Merson after squandering a gilt-edged chance to double his side’s lead.
Emi Martinez buzzing after Fulham victory
Taking to Instagram (3 May), Martinez wrote: “Finally, a home clean sheet. We keep pushing to the end!” alongside a selection of images from Villa’s win over the Cottagers.
Tielemans was joined by Matty Cash, Lucas Digne and Amadou Onana in liking the post, along with Bournemouth’s Marco Senesi and Emi Buendia.
Despite being a favourite figure at Villa Park, Paul Robinson told Football Insider that three Saudi Pro League sides are interested in signing Martinez for an astronomical fee this summer.
Unai Emery could have Aston Villa rebuild on his hands
Football Insider verdict
Martinez’s links with the Middle East might just be the least of Emery’s worries this summer, given that the Argentine has been far from his best across all competitions this term.
Ollie Watkins may want to leave Villa after being overlooked for Marcus Rashford for the past few weeks, and Ross Barkley and Leon Bailey could join him out the exit door.
| Premier League standings | Games played | Points |
| 3. Man City | 35 | 64 |
| 4. Newcastle United | 34 | 62 |
| 5. Chelsea | 34 | 60 |
| 6. Nottingham Forest | 34 | 60 |
| 7. Aston Villa | 35 | 60 |
This is another reason why Champions League qualification is so vital this season, with the idea of attracting new and exciting talent to Villa Park during the summer transfer window.
Whether Watkins stays or Rashford is signed permanently, a big-money deal for a new striker is wanted by the ever-expecting supporters, and another defensive member seems to be needed.
That point is proven by Martinez’s celebration about keeping a clean sheet at home, with Matty Cash often seen as the weak point in the back four, but PSR restrictions could stand in the way.