Photo: u/reepers_hellcat (CC BY 4.0), via Wikimedia Commons

Football1992 · Argentina

Emiliano
Martínez

Emiliano Martínez is an Argentine professional footballer renowned for his exceptional goalkeeping skills.

Career overview

Currently playing for Aston Villa and the Argentina national team, he has established himself as one of the top goalkeepers in the world, recognized for his performances in major international tournaments.

Visit the official Emiliano Martínez site →

Career honours

1FIFA World Cup · Winner in 2022

1Copa América · Winner in 2021 and 2024

2Finalissima · Winner in 2022

2Yashin Trophy · Awarded in 2023 and 2024

3The Best FIFA Goalkeeper · Awarded in 2022 and 2024

Records

RMost Clean Sheets in Premier League Season (Aston Villa) · 15 clean sheets in the 2020-21 season.

RMost Clean Sheets in First 100 Premier League Games · 34 clean sheets.

Biography

Early Life & Origins

Emiliano Martínez was born in Mar del Plata, Argentina, where he began his football journey in the youth ranks of Independiente. He showed promise early on, leading to a trial at Arsenal in England, where he was signed in 2010. His early career was marked by determination and resilience as he navigated the challenges of adapting to a new country and competitive environment.

Rise to Prominence

Martínez's breakthrough came during the 2019-2020 season with Arsenal, where he stepped up as the first-choice goalkeeper following an injury to Bernd Leno. His impressive performances helped secure an FA Cup victory for Arsenal, and shortly thereafter, he transferred to Aston Villa for a substantial fee, where he quickly became a key player.

Playing Style & Technique

Known for his height and agility, Martínez is particularly skilled in saving penalty kicks and commanding his area. His ability to read the game and make crucial saves has earned him acclaim, and he is often praised for his leadership on the pitch. His performances in high-pressure situations showcase his mental toughness and technical prowess.

Defining Moments & Achievements

Martínez's career reached new heights when he was instrumental in Argentina's victory at the 2021 Copa América, earning the Golden Glove award. He followed this with a stellar performance in the 2022 FIFA World Cup, where he again received the Golden Glove, solidifying his status as one of the best goalkeepers in football.

Rivalries & Era Context

In the competitive landscape of goalkeeping, Martínez has often been compared to contemporaries like Emiliano Buendía and other top keepers in the Premier League. His rise coincided with a golden era for Argentine football, where he has played a pivotal role in restoring the national team's prestige on the world stage.

Legacy & Impact

Emiliano Martínez's impact extends beyond the pitch; he is seen as a role model for aspiring goalkeepers in Argentina and around the world. His journey from youth football to international stardom serves as an inspiration, and his philanthropic efforts off the field reflect his commitment to giving back to the community.

Stats in detail

By Competition

A detailed breakdown of Emiliano Martínez's appearances and goals across various competitions.

Domestic League	284 apps, 0 goals
Domestic Cups	21 apps, 0 goals
International Matches	59 apps, 0 goals

By Club

Career statistics for Emiliano Martínez at each club.

Arsenal	15 apps, 0 goals
Aston Villa	213 apps, 0 goals
Loan to Oxford United	1 app, 0 goals
Loan to Sheffield Wednesday	11 apps, 0 goals
Loan to Rotherham United	8 apps, 0 goals
Loan to Wolverhampton Wanderers	13 apps, 0 goals
Loan to Getafe	5 apps, 0 goals
Loan to Reading	18 apps, 0 goals

Standout Seasons

Highlighting Martínez's most notable seasons in terms of appearances.

2020-21 (Aston Villa)	38 apps
2021-22 (Aston Villa)	36 apps
2022-23 (Aston Villa)	36 apps
2023-24 (Aston Villa)	34 apps
2024-25 (Aston Villa)	37 apps

International

Emiliano Martínez's international career statistics.

Argentina U17	2 apps, 0 goals
Argentina U20	5 apps, 0 goals
Argentina Senior Team	59 apps, 0 goals

Career timeline

2008Joined Independiente youth team.

2010Signed by Arsenal.

2012Made professional debut on loan at Oxford United.

2020Transferred to Aston Villa.

2021Debuted for Argentina national team.

2021Won Copa América with Argentina.

2022Won FIFA World Cup with Argentina.

2024Won Copa América again with Argentina.

Head-to-Head

vs Alisson BeckerHead-to-head