Overview
- Martínez left the lineup during the warm-up on Sunday at Nottingham Forest after feeling calf pain, and Marco Bizot started with around 20 minutes’ notice.
- Aston Villa drew 1-1 at the City Ground as Murillo’s own goal was matched by Neco Williams, with Bizot making key stops to secure a point.
- This was Martínez’s third warm-up withdrawal of the season, following late scratches at Feyenoord and Brighton, plus a halftime exit against Crystal Palace in January.
- Unai Emery praised Bizot’s experience and readiness and said his priority is the team’s response to late changes rather than offering assurances on Martínez.
- Villa’s medical staff are monitoring Martínez’s calf, and any further setbacks could force more reliance on Bizot as the club chases a top-four finish.