Argentina's No. 1 caused a massive stir for his actions during and after the 2022 FIFA World Cup final, and he has now revealed he went against Lionel Messi's orders before FIFA's investigation was launched.
Argentina Goalkeeper: Why I Mocked Mbappe After World Cup
In January, FIFA announced that their disciplinary committee had opened proceedings against the Argentine Football Association due to potential rule breaches for their behaviour following the World Cup final in the Middle East.
While a verdict has not yet been reached, it was said that goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez's actions during and after Argentina's penalty shootout victory over France might have been what brought about FIFA's investigation.
The Aston Villa shot-stopper was seen taunting Les Bleus' penalty-takers as they stepped up to shoot from 12 yards, while he was also pictured making controversial gestures after he won the tournament's Golden Glove award.
His celebrations back home in Argentina earned him more criticism, meanwhile, particularly from French supporters who felt he crossed a line with how he poked fun at France No. 7 Kylian Mbappe.
Martinez has since said that even Messi instructed him not to celebrate how he did after being named as the goalkeeper of the competition, and added that he meant no harm as it was a private joke between him and his colleagues.
"Do I regret the celebrations? Well, there are things I wouldn't do again in the same way," he told France Football.
"I didn't set out to hurt anyone. Throughout my career, I've played with French people and I've never had a problem… You can ask [Olivier] Giroud what kind of person I am.
"I really like the French culture and mentality. The gesture I made with the best goalkeeper trophy was a joke with my teammates.
"I had already done it at the Copa America, and they all said to me: 'No way' to do it again. Even Leo told me that. I did it for them, nothing more. It lasted a second and that was it."
You must be SIGNED IN to read and post comments
WATCH VIDEO:
