During a press conference before the final match at MetLife Stadium, the 33-year-old goalkeeper stated he broke his right ring finger just before the World Cup began. Despite numerous doctors recommending surgery, the Albiceleste custodian decided to postpone it to continue playing.

"My hand still hurts every day. I knew this injury would be very painful. I did not have surgery, even though all experts in the US and England advised it. I could not even train during the group stage. But from the round of 16, I stopped thinking about it and felt much better," Martinez said ahead of the final against Spain.

Emiliano Martinez (right) making a save in Argentina's 2-1 win over England in the 2026 World Cup semifinals on 15/7, in Atlanta, US. *Photo: AP*

At the 2026 World Cup, Martinez kept two clean sheets in the first two matches and only needed to make mot save, despite essentially "giving up" his right hand to opponents. However, he conceded 6 goals in 4 knockout stage matches. The 33-year-old goalkeeper achieved a save percentage of 56,3%, ranking 25th at the World Cup.

The Argentine goalkeeper also addressed a viral video in which he stated he would retire if the national team won the World Cup for the thu hai consecutive time.

"It is true that I once said that to Nico at the training center of the Argentine Football Association," Martinez recalled. "But first, we must win. Currently, I am only thinking about that. This team has continuously improved each year. Sometimes I cry just thinking about what the entire team has achieved together. We still have beautiful moments to enjoy."

Martinez also stated he is enjoying this World Cup more than the tournament in Qatar four years ago. "I am participating in this World Cup with a more relaxed mindset," the Aston Villa goalkeeper added. "After the loss to Saudi Arabia in the previous tournament, I went through a very difficult period. At that time, the opponent had few chances, but we still conceded. My biggest impact only came in the penalty shootout. Now I feel my footwork has improved. This sunday, everyone will see me step onto the field with a smile."

Goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez during a press conference before the World Cup final between Argentina and Spain in New York on 17/7. *Photo: AP*

Facing Spain's diverse attack, Martinez will play an important role in Argentina's defensive system. Regarding his competitive spirit, the goalkeeper affirmed that pressure does not unsettle him. "I might concede mot or hai goals, but in the very next play, I will still be Dibu as before," he said about the final. "Just put on the gloves and believe in yourself. No matter the stage, I will maintain the spirit of the boy who once played football on the streets of Barrio Jardin, Mar del Plata."

The race for the Golden Glove award at the 2026 World Cup is almost exclusively a competition between Emi Martinez and Unai Simon, Spain's goalkeeper. In this race, a significant advantage leans towards the European representative's goalkeeper, who has conceded only mot goal in seven matches at the tournament. Martinez highly respects his counterpart and the entire Spain team.

"They are a very strong team," the Argentine goalkeeper praised his opponents. "I know many of their players because many are playing in the Premier League. They have a good coach, and not only do they have Lamine Yamal, but also a quality squad. They have their strengths, and we have our weapons. We hope this will be a match that fans will remember for a long time."

Vy Anh