Emiliano Martínez was named 2024 as the best FIFA men’s goalkeeper
Emiliano Martínez has been named FIFA’s best men’s goalkeeper for 2024, which is the second time the Aston Villa and Argentina striker has won the award.
Martínez already claimed the 2024 Yashin Trophy at the Ballon d’Or ceremony – the second time he has also won this award – and has added even more to his trophy cabinet after being crowned the best goalkeeper of the year by FIFA.
The 32-year-old won the award for the first time in 2022 following his heroics at the World Cup in Qatar and this year has brought more success on the international stage.
Martinez was crucial ArgentinaThe Copa America triumph over the summer, with the South American divisive showing his ability to save penalties in the tournament en route to the trophy. He gave up just once in six games in the United States.
There were also plenty of stellar performances at club level, with Martínez an integral part Aston Villasurprise qualification for the 2024/25 Champions League. He has been impressive throughout the current campaign, even earning a nomination for the Premier League’s save of the month in September.
Martinez took home the award from Manchester City goalkeeper Ederson, becoming the first player to claim the award twice since it was first presented in 2017. Gianluigi Buffon won the inaugural award and Alisson, Thibaut Courtois , Manuel Neuer and Edouard Mendy have succeeded since then.
Six other goalkeepers were nominated for the 2024 FIFA Men’s Goalkeeper Award, including previous winner Ederson. Arsenal’s David Raya was the only other Premier League player on the shortlist.
Real Madrid’s Andriy Lunin missed out despite a stellar 2024 for the European champions, while Spain and Athletic Club stopper Unai Simon also failed to usurp Martinez. Gianluigi Donnarumma and Mike Maignan were the other nominees.
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