Aston Villa star has shared his state of mind ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup final on Sunday.
Aston Villa star who has just helped his nation to reach another world cup final this year, Emiliano Martinez, appears to be less troubled following the pressure to play in his second final at the world cup, and also the second finals in three months.
Back in late May, Martinez was instrumental to contribute well for The Lion’s success in Europa League final. Although he suffered a finger injury, he carried on playing till the final whistle. This weekend, he is set to play in the summit to defend the title with Argentina.
Ahead of the clash against Spain, the former Arsenal goalkeeper shared his feeling prior to the final tonight, as reported by the Mirror.
“I’ll step onto the pitch on Sunday, and you’ll see me smiling. I feel very calm. A goalkeeper’s role goes beyond just making saves during the match; you have to come off your line and project confidence. These are footballing aspects that reassure my teammates, I need to show them I’m composed.”
The 33-year old goalkeeper was the contributed heavily in Albiceleste’s success to clinch their third title in Qatar 2022. He played a bigger role on penalties and made crucial saves in a decisive moment.
However, in North America world cup, Martinez feels slightly different than four years ago.
“I’m enjoying this World Cup much more than the last one. I suffered a lot after the Saudi Arabia match in Qatar. I didn’t face many shots, yet I conceded goals. I only played a decisive role during the penalty shootouts. I think I’m playing better with my feet now, and I am eternally grateful to be playing in my fifth final with this team.”
His role in 2026 World Cup has been less decisive due to having to deal with the games without shootout so far. In fact, Martinez role just started improving well during the knockout stage, to be exact, at the quarter final.
Meanwhile, regarding his fractured finger he has suffered since before Europa League final, Martinez explains his current condition.
“My hand still hurts every day; I knew it was going to be extremely painful. I avoided surgery, even though all the specialists I consulted in the United States and England told me I needed to have it. I couldn’t train during the group stage, but from the Round of 16 onwards after Egypt, I stopped thinking about it, and I feel much better.”
He has been grateful with the support from the coaching staff, including Lionel Scaloni himself, on his decision.
“The coach sent me a message [before the World Cup] saying, ‘No matter what state you’re in, I want you on my team.To me, that means more than saving ten penalties or making the front page of the newspaper. And if my moment doesn’t come but we win the final, it will mean just as much.”
The Argentine has been linked with his departure from Villa Park. However, nothing has been official yet considering his rumor to join Juventus has been denied by Aston Villa director of football operation himself.
Meanwhile, on his future with Argentina national team, he once said that he would retire from international games if he win his second world cup this year. Apparently, such is not entirely true. The goalie clarifies it that it was a mere joke.
“Yes, it was with Nico at the AFA training complex. But first we have to win; that’s the only thing I’m focused on.”
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