Argentina goalkeeping hero Emi Martinez reveals the secrets to his penalty success and why he has teddy bears on his shin pads

Argentina's star goalkeeper has become a household name in global football because of his exceptional record in penalty shootouts. The World Cup winner, who recently added a second Copa America title to his impressive résumé, has shared insights into the rituals and practices that have contributed to his remarkable success.

Among the unusual aspects of Martinez's routine is his attachment to teddy bears, which he keeps on his shin pads. These cuddly toys were a gift from his wife before the World Cup, accompanied by a heartfelt message: "You are going to bring the golden cup home."

This personal token became a source of inspiration for Martinez and now ensures that the teddy bears are always with him. He carries a picture of these teddy bears on his shin pads for every match, a practice he considers essential to his pre-game ritual. This is just one of the many superstitions he adheres to, along with doing pilates and yoga two days before a game, praying, and consulting with his psychologist.

Speaking about his superstitions in an interview with The Telegraph, Martinez revealed: "I always keep a picture of the teddy bears on my shin pads. I keep them with me everywhere I go. I keep my same routine: I make sure I do pilates and yoga two days before, I pray before the games and have meetings with my psychologist.”

According to Martinez, he has always excelled in penalty situations, a talent he attributes to both natural ability and diligent preparation.

“I have always been a good penalty saver since I was very young,” he explained. “I think I’ve only lost one shoot-out in my whole career, it’s something I’ve always been pretty good at. I always think I am going to save two or three in a shoot-out.

“When you play 90 minutes and it is a penalty shoot-out, the pressure is completely different. Sometimes you need to have a bit of luck but, for me, working on it, reading the strikers, it is something that comes from within.”

Although Martinez is adored by his fans, he is often criticised for his antics on the pitch and eccentric celebrations that aim to rile up his rivals. However, to his defence, the wind-up merchant said: "It’s something that can happen, the adrenalin kicks in and sometimes you just can’t control it. I don’t look for it, it just comes. People who think of me being a show-off are probably the ones who don’t know me. I’m just a normal guy, a family man.

“I don’t apologise. I don’t swear, I don’t insult anyone. I just try to help my team – that’s all. I don’t cross a line, I never do. I always try to keep myself steady. When it is about winning I try everything I can to win the game. The only thing that I want is the best for my club and country. That is all that I care about.”

Since joining Aston Villa in 2020, Martinez has been a cornerstone of the team, making over 150 appearances and helping them achieve significant milestones. Last season, he played a pivotal role in securing a top-four finish in the Premier League, a feat that has qualified Villa for the Champions League. Martinez’s consistency between the posts has been a key factor in their success, and as they prepare for their next Premier League match against Arsenal, Martinez’s former club, all eyes will be on the Argentine shot-stopper.