Former Manchester United player, Roy Keane and Arsenal icon, Ian Wright have expressed differing opinions regarding Chelsea’s new goalkeeper, Emiliano Martinez.
Keane disagreed with Wright’s claim that Martinez will elevate the Blues to “the next level” following his transfer from Aston Villa.
Chelsea commenced the new season with Robert Sanchez as Xabi Alonso’s preferred goalkeeper at Stamford Bridge.
The Blues sought to replace Sanchez a year ago but concentrated on other positions for a significant portion of this summer.
However, after Sanchez delivered another inconsistent performance in Chelsea’s Premier League opener against Fulham, the Stamford Bridge management swiftly opted to pursue a new goalkeeper.
Martinez was presented to Chelsea by intermediaries, and a £7.5 million agreement was quickly reached to bring the Argentine World Cup winner to west London.
Several pundits have lauded Chelsea’s acquisition of Martinez, citing his experience and the reasonable fee in the current market.
Arsenal legend, Ian Wright, during a discussion on The Overlap, said: “I believe it’s an excellent signing for Chelsea. He’s the goalkeeper who can propel them to that next level because they needed to address that position.”
Keane disagreed with Wright’s assessment of Martinez and harbours reservations about Chelsea’s late-summer acquisition.
“I’m not convinced that’s a fantastic signing for Chelsea.
“I recognise they required a new goalkeeper, but I must tell you, he conceded a significant number of goals for Aston Villa last season. I acknowledge he possesses character and personality; I’ll concede him that.
“However, I’m uncertain. I have my doubts about that. He tends to parry saves directly into the six-yard box,” the former Manchester United captain stated.