Lionel Messi sends message to Aston Villa star Emi Martinez after what happened this week
Lionel Messi has named Emi Martinez as the “best goalkeeper in the world” after the Aston Villa star won the Yashin Trophy at the Balon d’Or ceremony on Monday (28 October).
The Villans keeper won the award for the second time in a row, taking the trophy ahead of the likes of Unai Simon, Gianluigi Donnarumma and Mike Maignan.
This comes after securing Champions League football with Aston Villa and a second Copa America title with Argentina.
His international teammate Messi has now reached out via Instagram (28 October) to congratulate the Villa star after picking up the accolade.
He said: “Congratulations to all the winners nominees at the 2024 Ballon d’Or. Especially to Dibu (how amazing, another award for the best goalkeeper in the world) and to Lautaro, Leo and Ale.
“It’s really great to see them all there.”
Lionel Messi congratulates Aston Villa star Emi Martinez
It won’t come as a surprise to Villa fans that their number 23 has picked up yet another Yashin Trophy to become the first man to secure the award in consecutive seasons.
The Argentina international has been integral to the Villans’ rise up the Premier League table under Unai Emery after signing for the club under Dean Smith.
Martinez has put in some superb performances this campaign, in particular in the Champions League with his showing against Bayern Munich particularly great.
This has only been mirrored with his national side, helping Messi to win back-to-back Copa America titles and a World Cup crown.
It is clear to see that he has made a good impression for Argentina on the ex-Barcelona sensation, who has sent a message that will be well received by Villa supporters.
Martinez will only use this trophy as motivation to succeed more and will be hopeful of securing some silverware at club level to match his personal accolades.
In other Aston Villa news, an offer is being readied a Boca Juniors ace as an exit update has now emerged.
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