Emiliano “Dibu” Martínez has once again proven why he is regarded as one of the biggest big-game players in world football. The Aston Villa goalkeeper extended his flawless finals record on Wednesday night as Villa defeated Freiburg 3-0 to lift the Europa League trophy.
The Argentine shot-stopper has now won every single final he has played in during his professional career. Seven finals. Seven victories. An extraordinary record that continues to grow year after year.
Martínez first tasted success with Arsenal in the 2020 FA Cup final before helping the club beat Liverpool in the Community Shield later that same year. His reputation then exploded on the international stage with Argentina.
He played a key role in Argentina’s Copa América triumph over Brazil in 2021 before adding another trophy in the Finalissima against Italy in 2022. Months later came the biggest moment of his career as Argentina defeated France in the FIFA World Cup final in Qatar.
Martínez delivered crucial saves and showed his trademark confidence under pressure throughout the tournament.
The experienced man added another Copa América title in 2024 after victory against Colombia before now helping Aston Villa conquer Europe with a dominant win over Freiburg.
While Villa’s attacking players grabbed the headlines during the final, Martínez once again brought leadership, calmness, and belief to the team. His winning mentality has become one of the defining traits of his career.