Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez has admitted Argentina means more to him than the Villans.
Ole cover comments from the goalkeeper today after he made a surprise appearance at a recent AFA event. They were holding an event in New York, “AFA as a Global Brand, The Power of a Brand” when the Aston Villa goalkeeper appeared by video call.
He discussed various topics during his time on screen. The focus, though, was naturally on the Argentine national side.
They’re gearing up to defend their World Cup crown next summer, with Martinez likely to be a key player in that once again.
He was arguably the star of the show last time around as his heroics in the penalty shootout against France secure the Albiceleste their title.
His time with the national side has been nothing short of glorious to date. Alongside personal achievements, he’s won two Copa Americas and the World Cup. He’s yet to taste that kind of success at club level with Aston Villa.
And he admits that, as a result, success with his country means far more to him. And that is very unlikely to change in future either.
“It’s not just me; most of those who have played in a World Cup have that feeling in their gut, which is hard to explain, but I’m more excited about this one than the last,” he said.
“Winning individual titles or titles with my club is like the icing on the cake, but the real treat of my entire career has always been playing for the Argentine national team.
“When I play for the National Team, I feel like the ball won’t go in; I have the whole country and my family behind me.”
