Arsene Wenger hailed Emi Martinez’s “belief and motivation” as the former Arsenal goalkeeper gears up for the World Cup final.
Now at Aston Villa, the 30-year-old has already played a key role in helping his country to Sunday’s showpiece against France, saving two penalties in a tense shootout with the Netherlands at the quarter-final stage.
It has been a long road for Martinez, who first joined Arsenal as a teenager but made only 38 senior appearances over an eight-year period.
The goalkeeper made his international debut at the age of 28 but is now the established No.1 for La Albiceleste, having also played a pivotal part in their Copa America win last year.
Wenger has spoken of his pride in seeing his former player’s successful journey as Argentina bid to win their first World Cup since 1986.
"I am very happy for him,” Wenger told The Daily Mirror.
“We were aware of his huge qualities. He was determined and had a desire to learn and a big passion for the game.
"Sometimes he went out on loan and didn’t even play. But it didn’t stop his belief and motivation. When I see him now play knowing what he went through I admire even more his achievement.
“Well done Emi, we are proud of you."
