‘I want to play’: Goalkeeper out on loan wants crunch talks with Arsenal boss

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Arsenal goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez has threatened to quit the club if Unai Emery doesn’t get more first-team opportunities, according to The Sun.

The Gunners custodian has excelled during a loan spell with Championship outfit Reading and is now ready to play more football at the Emirates Stadium.

Martinez’s form has been instrumental in helping the Royals pull clear of relegation trouble in the second tier. They have secured their Championship status with a game to spare of the campaign.

The 26-year-old has spent time away from Arsenal six times during his nine years with the club and he believes it’s a case of now or never when it comes to playing for the Gunners.

He told The Sun: “Arsenal are a club of my dreams but if they can’t guarantee me any games then it’s time for me to move on.

“I know I can be the number one. I’ve got everything to do it but I want to play in games. I need to sit down with Unai. After the season finishes, I will have a chat with him to see what his plans are for me.”

TBR Verdict

Petr Cech’s retirement at the end of the season could be ideal for Martinez.

His form at Reading has been decent and that could prompt Emery to use him as an understudy to Bernd Leno next season.

That could see him handed a chance to shine in the cup competitions, which he will probably settle for.

German stopper Leno hasn’t had a bad maiden campaign in the Premier League and it’s unlikely that Martinez will return from his Reading loan and wrestle the gloves straight off him.