Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has faced criticism for parting ways with one of the Premier League's standout players.
Despite the continued struggle of clinching the Premier League title, it’s difficult to dispute that Arteta has achieved significant success at Arsenal. He secured the FA Cup in his inaugural season and has transformed the team into a consistent title contender.
If not for Pep Guardiola’s record-breaking Manchester City side, Arteta would likely have already secured one or two league titles.
Arteta has undoubtedly transformed the culture at the Emirates Stadium by eliminating several negative influences in the dressing room and bringing in players who are more aligned with his vision and the club’s philosophy.
Arteta's questionable transfer decision
While not every transfer decision has yielded positive results, it's important to recognize the impact that some transfers had. Emiliano Martinez, for instance, has been highlighted as one of the top goalkeepers in the Premier League since he departed from Arsenal.
After dedicating nearly ten years to the club, Martinez played 38 matches for the first team, before moving to Aston Villa in 2020.
The 32-year-old has not only played a pivotal role in guiding Villa to Champions League qualification but has also been a standout performer in Argentina's World Cup victory in Qatar. With his exceptional performances for both club and country, Premier League legend Jussi Jaaskelainen confidently ranks Martinez among the top two goalkeepers in the Premier League.
"But the other one for me would have to be Emi Martinez, for Aston Villa. He’s right up there for me, and I can’t believe how good a move it’s been for him, to leave Arsenal and go to Villa." Jussi Jaaskelainen said.
"Since then, he’s won the World Cup, the Copa America, and he’s played a huge part in getting Villa back into Europe. I really do like him, he’s big, he’s strong, he’s fast, he’s great with the ball… he’s got everything, honestly. I love how commanding he is in his box – he’s aggressive when he needs to be aggressive." he added.