Tue Dec 17 19:48:14 UTC 2024: ## Martinez Makes History: Aston Villa’s Goalkeeper Wins Second FIFA Best Award
**London, UK** – Aston Villa and Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez has been named The Best FIFA Men’s Goalkeeper for 2024, marking a historic second win for the 32-year-old. This follows his recent victory at the Ballon d’Or, securing his second Yashin Trophy.
Martinez’s exceptional performances throughout the year secured him the coveted award. His crucial role in Argentina’s Copa America triumph this summer, highlighted by his penalty-saving prowess, was instrumental in his victory. He conceded only one goal across six matches in the tournament.
His contributions weren’t limited to the international stage. Martinez was integral to Aston Villa’s surprising qualification for the 2024/25 Champions League, consistently delivering impressive performances at club level, even earning a Premier League Save of the Month nomination in September.
The win makes Martinez the first goalkeeper to win the FIFA Best award twice since its inception in 2017, surpassing previous winners including Gianluigi Buffon, Alisson, Thibaut Courtois, Manuel Neuer, and Edouard Mendy. He beat out stiff competition from a shortlist of six other goalkeepers, including last year’s winner, Manchester City’s Ederson, and Arsenal’s David Raya. Other nominees included Real Madrid’s Andriy Lunin, Athletic Club’s Unai Simon, and AC Milan’s Gianluigi Donnarumma and Mike Maignan.
First Piper 