Martinez accepted FIFA's punishment and apologized
October 1, 20241 Min Read

Sports Desk: Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez has been punished by FIFA for offensive behavior. The world champion has been banned for two matches. The star footballer apologized for his behavior after accepting FIFA's punishment. He claimed that he did not behave like that with the intention of disrespecting anyone.

Emiliano Martinez

Martinez apologized in a post on social media Monday. Wrote, 'I have accepted the FIFA ban. If I hurt anyone, I apologize. The celebration is meant to bring smiles to many children's faces, not to disrespect anyone.'

The 32-year-old goalkeeper will miss the 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Venezuela on October 10 and Bolivia on October 15 due to the ban. Emi wrote about supporting his teammates even when he is not in charge of the goal post, "I will support my teammates in the upcoming FIFA schedule, despite the pain of not being there."

The Aston Villa goalkeeper also said not to disturb anyone on the field. Wrote, 'It was not my intention to disrespect anyone, did not realize that a gesture was offensive to people. Anyway, will try not to bother anyone else. I will focus on winning titles for Argentina and Aston Villa.'