Martinez appears to mock Mbappe in Argentina changing room celebration

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Emiliano Martinez seemed to mock Kylian Mbappe as the Argentina players celebrated their World Cup final win over France in the changing room. The Aston Villa goalkeeper mentioned the French striker during jubilant scenes with his team-mates.

Martinez was awarded the Golden Glove after the match for being the best goalkeeper at the tournament in Qatar. His reputation for being a fine penalty saver was enhanced again in the dramatic shootout victory.

The 30-year-old bent down to console Mbappe following the final spot kick after his hat-trick was not enough to lead France to back-to-back World Cup triumphs. But Martinez appeared to change his tune out of earshot of the Paris Saint-Germain superstar.

A video emerged on social media of the Argentina squad celebrating in the dressing room. The players were singing and doing the conga before Martinez whistled for everyone to stop.

Argentina fans celebrate World Cup final win

He appeared to call out Mbappe, with widespread reports claiming he was demanding a moment of silence for the 23-year-old. After a momentary pause, the celebrations continued.

Martinez kept three clean sheets in the tournament, including in the semi-final win over Croatia. But it is fair to say Mbappe got the better of him during the game on Sunday.

The striker scored two penalties, including one in extra-time, before also netting in the shootout. Mbappe’s second goal was his best, volleying in across Martinez to score his second in the space of a minute.

It has been some rise for Martinez, who only became a regular No 1 for a club at the age of 28 when he joined Villa from Arsenal in late 2020. He starred in Argentina’s Copa America win in 2021 and was at his best again in Qatar.

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He kept out Kingsley Coman’s effort in the shootout, before Aurelien Tchouameni sent his strike wide. Former Arsenal striker Ian Wright paid tribute to Martinez after the game.

He said on ITV: “You mention Emi Martinez. He was at Arsenal and when [Bernd] Leno got injured, he took his opportunity and he said he wanted to be Argentina’s number one goalkeeper and this is the reason why.

“He’s played brilliant, went to Aston Villa, done brilliant, for Argentina he’s in the perfect position to do what he does best.”

Martinez could be back in action as soon as Boxing Day. Villa host Liverpool as the Premier League resumes just eight days after the World Cup final.

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