Aston Villa manager, Unai Emery, has confirmed that Emiliano Martinez is no longer the club’s vice-captain after Ezri Konsa wore the armband in Thursday, November 6, 2025, European fixture.
The Argentina goalkeeper, who usually captains the team in John McGinn’s absence, was expected to lead the side when the Scotsman was left out of the starting lineup against their Israeli opponents.
However, Konsa instead took the role, sparking speculation about Martinez’s position in the leadership hierarchy.
Following Villa’s 2-0 victory, Emery clarified the situation, stating that Emiliano Martinez had been relieved of his vice-captain duties after internal discussions.
“The first captain is John McGinn,” Emery said via Birmingham Live.
“We decided how we are managing the next captain.”
“Usually, we have Emi Martinez as second captain, but after speaking with him, I prefer to get him back.”
“Konsa is the next one, with Tyrone Mings and Ollie Watkins also part of the leadership group.”
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