Overview

• Emiliano Martínez is set to start for Aston Villa in the Champions League quarter-final first leg against PSG at Parc des Princes.
• The Argentine goalkeeper remains a divisive figure in France due to his provocative behavior during the 2022 World Cup final, including delaying penalties and mocking Kylian Mbappé.
• Ahead of the match, Martínez further stoked tensions by wearing a cap featuring an Argentina emblem over the French national team’s symbol.
• Manager Unai Emery has praised Martínez’s growth, citing improved emotional control and focus as key to his recent performances.
• Aston Villa, strengthened by key signings like Marcus Rashford and Marco Asensio, aim to advance in their first Champions League campaign against a PSG side favored to win the tournament.