Emi Martinez reveals Unai Emery’s genius pre-match preparation that inspired Aston Villa to win over Bayern Munich
ASTON VILLA star Emi Martinez has lifted the lid on Unai Emery’s genius pre-match preparation ahead of last night’s famous triumph over Bayern Munich.
Emery’s side defeated the six-time champions of Europe 1-0 at a raucous Villa Park.
Martinez, 32, made a series of excellent saves during the encounter, including one from a Harry Kane header deep into stoppage time.
He also played his part in Villa’s 79th minute opener, claiming a set piece before bowling the ball to Pau Torres.
The defender took it from there, finding Jhon Duran with an excellent through ball.
Red-hot Duran, 20, then spotted Manuel Neuer miles off his line, catching the experienced German keeper out by quickly whacking the ball past him and into the back of the net.
Speaking to TNT Sports after the game, Martinez revealed the part that boss Emery played in Villa’s dramatic winner.
He said: “We knew Neuer plays high. We watched a lot of movies with the manager this morning. He had that in his mind.”
The Argentine then heaped praise on the Villa Park atmosphere.
He added: “It’s unreal to be fair. This is the loudest Villa Park that I’ve heard since I joined the club, that’s for sure, it was hurting my ears at some point.
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“It’s a club that is moving forward. It’s the main reason why I stay in this football club.
“I love playing here, I love the fans, this is a win for them.”
On super-sub Duran, who replaced England striker Ollie Watkins in the 70th minute of last night’s encounter, Martinez added: “He came back with a different mentality this season.
“He’s willing to work hard, he’s pushing Ollie all the way, they can play together he’s a super sub, the first time he touched the ball, he lobbed Neuer, one of the best goals in history.”
Emery, who was lavished with praise by the Villa faithful after the game, also had plenty of positive things to say about his young Colombian striker.
The Spaniard, 52, said: “We are working with him. Most important is his attitude. He’s available to play 90, 60, 30 minutes. He’s been focusing each minute he’s playing.
“Today we had two very good strikers. It’s fantastic for him and the team.
“Against teams like that, it’s very important to be strong. Martinez did an amazing job, amazing saves.
“We have to try to play each match. We compete very well, we won. Maybe we can get [in] the first eight positions.”