Emiliano Martinez, the goalkeeper for Aston Villa, won the Ballon d’Or in Paris in 2024 for his great season with both his club and his country.

He won the Yacine Trophy for the second year in a row. This trophy is given to the best goalie in the world football and is chosen by former Ballon d’Or winners.

Martinez was the first player in history to win the award more than once. He beat out players like Mike Maignan, Gianluigi Donnarumma, and Andriy Lunin this year.

Aston Villa’s goalkeeper was praised by many peers from both the club and the country. Lionel Messi, the captain of Argentina, also joined in the praise.

Read also: Ian Taylor says that Aston Villa have the “best in the world” in his job.

The 2024 Copa America was won by Argentina thanks in large part to Martinez. It was the end of one of the best periods in the country’s history.

The mysterious goalkeeper was on Argentina’s team when they won the game in 2021, and he was also a key part of their 2022 FIFA World Cup win, solidifying his place as one of the best players of all time.

Martinez had a great season in 2023–24. He was in great shape for Aston Villa as they came fourth in the Premier League and went back to the UEFA Champions League for the first time in 40 years.

Messi congratulated him on Instagram and Lautaro Martinez, who came in seventh place in the 2024 Ballon d’Or polls, after he won the Yacine Trophy for his great play in goal.

In English, Messi’s text says, “Congratulations to all the winners and nominees of the Ballon d’Or 2024!”

Thank you very much to Dibu (another award for best goalie in the world!), Lautaro, Leo, and Ale. It’s great to see them!”