Player profile
Emiliano Martínez
Goalkeeper · Aston Villa
Emiliano Martínez was Player of the Match in the 2026 World Cup final despite Argentina's 1-0 extra-time loss to Spain, and is now weighing whether that heartbreak was his last act for the national team.
Career
Martínez made 11 saves in the World Cup final at MetLife Stadium as Spain edged Argentina 1-0 after extra time through a late Ferran Torres goal, a performance that earned him a 9.6 Sofascore rating and Player of the Match honours even in defeat — though the tournament's Golden Glove for best goalkeeper went to Spain's Unai Simón instead.
The final was the latest chapter in a decorated Argentina career that already included the 2022 World Cup, two Copa América titles and the CONMEBOL–UEFA Finalissima.
How they play
Known as much for his shot-stopping under pressure as for the gamesmanship he brings to penalty shootouts, Martínez built his reputation on big-occasion composure — the profile that made him Argentina's number one through two World Cup cycles.
Where they are now
In a heartfelt Instagram message after the final, Martínez suggested his Argentina career could be over, saying he needs to decide if it's time to step aside from international football.
Bio
Club career
- Aston Villa F.C.2020
- Arsenal F.C.2010–2020
- Reading F.C.2019
- Getafe CF2017–2018
- Wolverhampton Wanderers F.C.2015–2016
- Rotherham United F.C.2015
- Sheffield Wednesday F.C.2013–2014
- Oxford United F.C.2012
International career
- Argentina men's national football teamSince 2021Current
Youth caps: U20 (2009–2011) · U17 (2009)
Honours
No honours on record yet.
Defining moments
Player of the Match in a losing final2026
Martínez made 11 saves in Argentina's 1-0 extra-time defeat to Spain in the 2026 World Cup final, earning Player of the Match honours despite the loss — a performance he followed with a heartfelt message hinting his international career may be over.
Latest season stats (ESPN)
In our archive
- Argentina 0–1 SpainLStarted · #23 · Goalkeeper
Sources
- ESPN athlete profileJul 18, 2026
- WikidataJul 18, 2026
- Player photo — Bryan BerlinCC BY-SA 4.0
Read for this profile
- Sofascore — Martínez's World Cup Final masterpiece, even in defeatAugust 4, 2026
- ESPN — Emi Martínez considering Argentina future after World Cup final heartbreakAugust 4, 2026
Profile written / last reviewed August 4, 2026.
Data note: Ambiguous: 2 footballers matched this name on Wikidata (Q3275904, Q97608024); picked Q3275904 — age matched ESPN.
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