Argentina and Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez, who was within the eye of the storm because of his antics after successful the World Cup particularly along with his taunting of French star Kylian Mbappe, lately stated that he didn’t goal 24-year-old in the course of the celebrations.
Martinez was filmed carrying a doll with Mbappé’s face on it whereas standing alongside teammate Lionel Messi as Argentina paraded the trophy again residence.
“I held it (doll) for like two minutes and I threw it away, that’s all. How can I make fun of Mbappe? He scored four past me. Four goals in a final! He must think I am his toy baby! I have huge respect for Mbappe,” the 30-year-old stated in an interview with France Football.
Martinez, who additionally made a crude gesture after successful the Golden Glove award for finest goalkeeper, was additionally filmed mocking Mbappé within the crew dressing room after the sport.
“It’s a locker room thing. It should never have come out. When France beat us in 2018, I remember there were chants about Messi [involving N’Golo Kante]. Same thing, if a team beats Brazil, they’ll be singing about Neymar,” he stated when requested about it.
“There’s nothing personal against Mbappe. I respect him a lot. If people sing about him or Neymar, it’s because they are top players. After the final, I told him that it was a pleasure to play against him and that he almost won the match on his own. I had confirmation that he has immense talent. When Messi retires, I am sure Kylian will win many Ballon d’Or awards,” he added.
