The Lev Yashin Cup, awarded to the world’s top goalkeeper, was claimed at the close of the 2022/23 season by Emiliano Martinez. The Argentine international, who guards the goal for Aston Villa in the English Premier League and for the Argentina national team, earned the honor in a season that underscored his consistency between club duties and national duty.
Martinez anchored the Argentina squad that lifted the FIFA World Cup in 2022, a triumph celebrated by fans across the Americas and Europe alike. His performances in the tournament elevated his standing, with crucial saves and composure under pressure helping shape Argentina’s path to glory on football’s biggest stage.
The World Cup final, held on December 18, pitted Argentina against France in a dramatic contest that finished 2-2 after normal time. The equalization efforts continued through extra time, and Lionel Messi contributed a memorable goal to level the scores at 3-3. Argentina carried their nerve and accuracy into the ensuing penalty shoot-out, where Martinez’s peers in the defense and the squad’s overall discipline translated into victory. The goalkeeper’s standout display throughout the tournament further cemented his reputation as one of the game’s premier shot-stoppers.
Earlier in 2021, Martinez added another major trophy to his collection by starring in Argentina’s Copa America campaign. In the final, the national side edged Brazil 1-0 thanks to a decisive strike by Angel Di Maria, granting Argentina a coveted continental title after years of intense competition and near misses. Martinez’s role in goal was instrumental, helping to secure a clean sheet at a critical moment and earning widespread appreciation from fans and analysts alike.
Since joining Aston Villa in 2020, Martinez has brought his high-caliber experience to the English top flight, balancing club responsibilities with his international duties. His journey to the Premier League began earlier in his career with Arsenal, where he joined the club in 2012. He spent eight seasons in north London, making a limited number of first-team appearances before moving on in search of more regular action. His career trajectory highlights a path of perseverance, recovery, and growth that culminated in his emergence as a leading figure for both his club and his country.
There was a period when Martinez acknowledged a nickname associated with his style or approach—describing him to some observers as a player who embodies the principles of passing football. This label, reflective of his ability to play out from the back and contribute to build-up play, has been part of discussions around his technical profile as a modern goalkeeper. Martinez’s approach has consistently emphasized decision-making, ball distribution, and calm leadership under pressure, traits that fans and teammates have repeatedly cited as key to his success on the highest stages.