Emiliano Martínez has been named The Best FIFA Men’s Goalkeeper for 2024, marking the second time the Aston Villa and Argentina star has received this prestigious honor.
Martínez, who also won the 2024 Yashin Trophy at the Ballon d’Or ceremony—his second time claiming that award—adds another accolade to a remarkable year.
The 32-year-old first earned the FIFA honor in 2022 after his pivotal role in Argentina’s World Cup victory. In 2024, he continued to shine on the international stage, playing a key part in Argentina’s Copa América triumph. His penalty-saving heroics were instrumental in the tournament, where he conceded just one goal across six matches in the United States.
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At the club level, Martínez was equally impressive. He played a vital role in Aston Villa’s unexpected qualification for the 2024/25 Champions League and has been a standout performer this season, even earning a Premier League Save of the Month nomination in September.
Martínez has now dethroned Manchester City’s Ederson as the reigning Best FIFA Men’s Goalkeeper, becoming the first player to win the award twice since its introduction in 2017. Previous winners include Gianluigi Buffon, Alisson, Thibaut Courtois, Manuel Neuer, and Édouard Mendy.
This year, six other goalkeepers were shortlisted for the award, including Ederson and Arsenal’s David Raya from the Premier League. Real Madrid’s Andriy Lunin, Spain’s Unai Simón (Athletic Club), Gianluigi Donnarumma, and Mike Maignan were also nominated but fell short of overtaking Martínez.