Fri Oct 11 01:48:34 UTC 2024: ## Former Colombian Goalkeeper Slams Emiliano Martinez’s Behaviour
Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez is facing further criticism for his on-field antics, this time from former Colombian international Óscar Córdoba. Martinez, who is currently serving a two-game FIFA ban for “offensive behaviour”, has been accused of being disrespectful and unprofessional by Córdoba.
The ban stems from incidents during Argentina’s September fixtures against Chile and Colombia. Martinez infamously celebrated Argentina’s 3-0 win over Chile by holding a replica Copa America trophy against his crotch, mirroring his controversial celebrations during the 2022 World Cup. He then struck a cameraman with his gloves after Argentina’s 2-1 loss to Colombia.
Córdoba, who played alongside Martinez in the past, expressed his disapproval of the Argentine’s behaviour, stating that he “doesn’t share some thoughts” because it goes against his values.
“I understand that he is a great goalkeeper,” Córdoba said to DSports. “But I don’t share some thoughts because it is a form of social, cultural and family structure. I was taught how an athlete should behave. More so if he is from the National Team and that is externalised for the boys and girls.”
“I am giving the example to these kids who want to be the Dibu Martínez or Óscar Córdoba of the past. If his behaviour is not in accordance with the true behaviour that an athlete should have, it is his problem. Mine is another. I just don’t share his way of celebrating.”
Córdoba’s criticism comes on the heels of Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni’s public call for Martinez to change his behaviour. Scaloni acknowledged that Argentina cannot afford to lose a key player like Martinez to suspensions.
With Martinez facing growing criticism from both former colleagues and his national team manager, the spotlight remains on the controversial goalkeeper’s future conduct.
First Piper 