Martinez ´will retire´ from international duty if Argentina defend World Cup crown

Emiliano Martinez claims he will retire from international football after the 2026 World Cup, should Argentina secure back-to-back triumphs.

Lionel Scaloni’s side are the reigning world champions following their dramatic victory over France on penalties in Qatar two years ago.

Martinez played a starring role as La Albiceleste lifted the trophy for the third time – and first since 1986 – with his performances between the sticks earning him the Golden Glove award.

The Aston Villa stopper, who was also named the Best FIFA goalkeeper that year, landed the latter accolade for a second time this week, having helped Argentina successfully defend their Copa America crown earlier this year.

They will look to follow suit at the World Cup in Canada, Mexico and the United States in 18 months’ time, and become only the third nation to win back-to-back titles after Italy and Brazil.

Should Argentina do so, though, Martinez vowed he would subsequently walk away from international duty.

“Is there any national team that has won two World Cups in a row?” he told AFA Estudio.

“If I become a two-time world champion with the Argentine national team, I will retire. I promise you. I’m telling you today. I will retire after that World Cup.”

A special time of yearpic.twitter.com/eV6wCBdJPq

— Aston Villa (@AVFCOfficial) December 20, 2024