Didier Drogba Warns Chelsea Against Emiliano Martinez Signing Amid Goalkeeper Search
Chelsea FC are actively exploring goalkeeper options in the 2025 summer transfer window, but club legend Didier Drogba has urged the Blues to avoid making a move for Aston Villa’s Emiliano Martinez, despite the World Cup-winning Argentine being offered to the club.
🔍 Chelsea Goalkeeper Search Continues After Mike Maignan Snub
After failing to land AC Milan captain Mike Maignan, who was reportedly open to a move, Chelsea are now back on the hunt for a long-term No.1. Milan’s firm stance on Maignan being untouchable forced the Blues to look elsewhere — sparking fresh transfer rumors linking them with Emiliano Martinez.
Reports claim Aston Villa may be willing to sell the 32-year-old shot-stopper for around £45 million as they aim to balance their books. However, Chelsea are not currently pursuing a formal bid — a decision that former Blues defender William Gallas supports.
❌ Gallas: “Martinez Not a Good Fit for Chelsea”
Speaking to Prime Casino, Gallas questioned whether Martinez’s temperament aligns with Chelsea’s identity:
“He’s a good goalkeeper and was crucial for Argentina at the World Cup, but I doubt he fits the profile for Chelsea,” Gallas stated.
Gallas, who played for Chelsea from 2001 to 2006, went further by criticizing Martinez’s on-field behaviour, suggesting it would clash with the club's values.
“Chelsea need a professional, composed keeper — not someone who grabs headlines for the wrong reasons. Passion is one thing, but antics are another,” he added.
⚠️ Concerns Over Martinez’s Behaviour and Public Antics
Martinez has become known for his animated goal celebrations and fiery demeanor — particularly during Argentina's World Cup run, where his penalty shootout antics went viral. Gallas didn’t hold back:
“Show me one world-class keeper who behaves like Martinez — dancing after saves, crotch grabbing. It’s not the image Chelsea should promote,” he said. “Even Jens Lehmann, who was a bit crazy, didn’t act like that.”
Gallas emphasized that while talent is crucial, professionalism and character must match Chelsea's elite expectations.
🔄 Chelsea Transfer News: Attacking Reinforcements Already In
While the club seems to have cooled interest in Martinez, Chelsea have been busy strengthening their attacking options:
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Liam Delap – signed from Ipswich Town
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Joao Pedro – joined from Brighton
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Jamie Gittens – nearing completion of a move from Borussia Dortmund
Under new head coach Enzo Maresca, Chelsea are focused on building a dynamic, attack-minded squad. However, the search for a long-term goalkeeper continues, with Martinez now seen as an unlikely candidate.
🔎 Conclusion: Chelsea Prioritizing Professionalism in Goalkeeper Hunt
With Chelsea aiming to return to elite status under Maresca, the club appears to be prioritizing not only quality but also discipline and character in their recruitment. While Martinez brings World Cup pedigree, his controversial behavior on and off the pitch may ultimately cost him a move to Stamford Bridge.