After retaining the Yashin Trophy and being named the best FIFA Men’s Goalkeeper, it’s perhaps no surprise that Emiliano Martinez was named in EA FC 25’s Team of the Year.

The Argentine also won the Copa America, winning the Golden Glove Award and helping Aston Villa qualify for the Champions League in addition to reaching the semi-finals of the Conference League.

Aston Villa United have enjoyed an impressive revival under Emery’s management, from potential relegation fodder under Steven Gerrard to established European contenders.

They shine in transfer Bazar brings in a raft of quality players, and has got their act together on the field to play some of the most impressive football on display. Premier League. Much of their success, however, has been laid down by Martinez firmly in goal.

One of Villa’s best acts over the last few years, Martinez is fast closing in on 200 appearances in all competitions for the club, where he has improved his game from good to good. A beacon of consistency in terms of performance levels, he is also a vocal leader who inspires his team, his supporters and gets under the skin of opponents.

Martinez’s best attribute is that he can back up his words, as evidenced by his increasingly impressive CV. His record for Argentina is second to none with 10 clean sheets in 2024, and his country’s Copa America success was largely due to his stunning quarter-final performance when he saved two penalties against Ecuador.

He has been accused and even banned for “violating the principles of fair play”, but there’s no denying that Martinez is one of the most influential goalkeepers in world football at the moment. Saving 12 penalties for Argentina in the shootout is a testament to his impact on a possible 24 (career to date) on opposing players.

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