Xabi Alonso has said new signing Emi Martinez has brought an influential aura to Chelsea.
Martinez made his Chelsea debut as the Blues won 4-3 against Brighton on Sunday, after joining from Aston Villa in a £7.5m deal.
The 33-year-old brings a wealth of experience to West London, which includes three major tournament wins with Argentina, including the 2022 World Cup, and Europa League success at Villa Park.
Alonso is delighted to have welcomed the goalkeeper into his squad and believes Martinez can be a real leader in a youthful dressing room. He added that he had no doubt about thrusting the new arrival straight into the side.
“Emi is a World Cup winner, is 33 years old, and is very experienced. I spoke with him yesterday (Saturday) and we talked about the game and our team. He felt ready, and I don’t have to tell him many things for him to perform,” the Spaniard said.
“Even today, while a goalkeeper wants to keep a clean sheet, I am happy with his impact. He has been in the building just 48 hours, so now we will have a whole week to prepare for the next one.
“Day by day, we will feel this presence because he has this charisma, this aura to influence and have a very positive connection with the rest of the team.”
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