Aston Villa’s Emiliano Martinez is once again doing what he does best — getting under the skin of French football fans, this time with a cheeky fashion statement ahead of a high-stakes Champions League showdown.
As Villa arrived in Paris for their quarter-final clash against PSG, Martinez was spotted wearing a bold baseball cap that playfully reignited memories of Argentina’s epic 2022 World Cup final victory over France. The cap, shared on Aston Villa’s official social media, features a French cockerel paired with Argentina’s crest and symbols of the four major trophies he’s helped secure for the national team — a subtle but clear jab at Les Bleus.
If this feels familiar, it’s because it is. The 32-year-old keeper has long been a thorn in the side of French fans. From his animated antics during the Qatar final’s penalty shootout — including a crucial save against Kingsley Coman — to the infamous moment he paraded around with a Kylian Mbappe doll during Argentina’s celebrations, Martinez has a history of showmanship that splits opinion.
But Aston Villa manager Unai Emery believes there’s a more mature Emi behind the theatrics these days.
“He’s more controlled now,” Emery said during a pre-match press conference. “He’s grown a lot since I worked with him at Arsenal. He’s not just a character anymore — he’s one of the best goalkeepers in the world.”
Martinez’s evolution has been noticeable. Emery credits his growth both on and off the pitch, saying the Argentine now channels his passion more constructively while still remaining a competitive force. “Now, it’s about managing success and staying focused,” Emery added. “He knows the spotlight is on, and he’s learned to thrive in it.”
Villa, making their first Champions League appearance since 1983, will need Martinez’s talent — and maybe just a bit of his chaos magic — as they aim to upset a confident PSG side that recently secured the Ligue 1 title and eliminated Liverpool in the previous round.
Whether Martinez’s cap was gamesmanship or just good-natured trolling, one thing’s for sure: the drama has already begun — and kickoff is still hours away.
