Mikel Arteta praises Chelsea's signing of Emiliano Martinez before London derby | OneFootball

Mikel Arteta has hailed Xabi Alonso and Chelsea for landing Emiliano Martinez, as Arsenal prepare to host their rivals in a high-profile early-season London derby. He believes the World Cup winner fits what Chelsea needed to shore up their defence and boost their title credentials this season.

According to Goal.com, Alonso has overseen sweeping changes at Stamford Bridge, with 11 summer arrivals. While the record £117 million signing of Rogers dominated headlines, Martinez joined from Aston Villa for £7.5m to become first-choice, with Robert Sanchez departing on deadline day to Como on loan.

Martinez debuted in the 4-3 win over Brighton last weekend. He started in John Terry’s No.26, then switched to the vacant No.1 in time to face his former club.

Arteta said he always expected Martinez to make such a move and described him as a top goalkeeper he knows well. The Argentine spent eight years at Arsenal, helping Arteta lift the FA Cup and Community Shield in 2020 before leaving for Villa.

Chelsea’s recruitment also brushed against Arsenal’s plans, with the Gunners linked to Rogers before he chose Stamford Bridge. Despite also missing out on Vinicius Jr. and Julian Alvarez, Arteta said he is unconcerned, stressing the window is closed and his focus is on the players he has.

Both teams have perfect records from their opening two Premier League matches. Sunday’s meeting at the Emirates is an early gauge of title intent. Martinez returns with his new number, and for Alonso a victory away to the reigning champions would strengthen the case for Chelsea’s busy rebuild.

Source: Goal.com

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