At the Ballon d’Or 2024 ceremony, Emiliano Martínez has once again claimed the Yachine Trophy. The 32-year-old Argentine shot-stopper not only achieved this consecutive win but also broke new ground by becoming the first goalkeeper in history to win the Yachine Trophy two years in a row.
Martínez’s accomplishments extend far beyond personal accolades. His role has been instrumental in Argentina’s success, most notably in their Copa America Campaign, where his performances were critical in helping the team lift the trophy. Additionally, Martínez’s outstanding season with Aston Villa saw the club finish fourth in the Premier League, securing a coveted spot in the UEFA Champions League for the first time in over a decade. This return to competition is a milestone for Aston Villa and Martínez’s leadership at the back played an undeniable role.
Back-to-Back Yachine Trophy Winner
The Yachine Trophy, awarded annually to the best goalkeeper in the world, was presented to Martínez for the second year running. The Argentinian stood out in an exceptional field, which included some of the best names in goalkeeping like Unai Simón of Athletic Bilbao, Real Madrid’s Andriy Lunin, Gianluigi Donnarumma of PSG, and AC Milan’s Mike Maignan.
However, Martínez’s remarkable season for both club and country set him apart and the award is a testament to his consistency and high level of performance. Reflecting on his achievement, Martínez remained characteristically humble: “I don’t consider myself the best goalkeeper in the world. I see many great goalkeepers week in, week out. I just prefer to win collective trophies with my team and national team and to improve as a goalkeeper. “I’m obsessed with getting better,” Martínez added. “I always say collective trophies are the most important. I want to thank Lautaro for scoring that goal in the final, for helping me to win this.”
Argentina’s Top Performer and EPL Standout
Emiliano Martínez’s presence in the Ballon d’Or rankings is a significant recognition. As the only goalkeeper in the top 20, his inclusion alongside global talents such as Erling Haaland, Vinicius Junior, Jude Bellingham, and the eventual winner, Rodri, is an indication of his unique impact on the pitch.
Among Premier League players who made the list, Martínez’s Aston Villa teammate Ollie Watkins missed out, but fellow League stars such as Haaland, Rodri, Phil Foden, Martin Ødegaard and Bukayo Saka were also recognized for their performances.
Notably, Martínez’s position as 18th in the Ballon d’Or ranking makes him a key ambassador of the goalkeeping craft, often underrepresented in awards dominated by forwards and midfielders. He represents a rare case where a goalkeeper’s impact has garnered enough attention to place him among the game’s elite.
The Ballon d’Or 2024 Rankings: Rodri Makes History for Spain
The Ballon d’Or 2024 rankings saw an exciting mix of players, with Manchester City’s Rodri becoming the first Spaniard to win the Ballon d’Or since 1960. Following him were Vinicius Junior in second and Jude Bellingham, securing third place.
The Ballon d’Or top 10 included Kylian Mbappe and Harry Kane, with young talent like Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal finishing eighth. In addition to Martínez, the Premier League was well-represented with Manchester City’s Foden at 11th, Arsenal’s Ødegaard at 19th, and Declan Rice further down the list.
Full rankings of the top 20 are as follows:
1. Rodri, Manchester City
2. Vinicius Junior
3. Jude Bellingham
4. Dani Carvajal
5. Erling Haaland, Manchester City
6. Kylian Mbappe, PSG, Real Madrid
7. Lautaro Martinez, Inter Milan
8. Lamine Yamal, Barcelona
9. Toni Kroos, Real Madrid
10. Harry Kane, Bayern Munich
11. Phil Foden, Manchester City
12. Florian Wirtz, Bayer Leverkusen
13. Dani Olmo, Barcelona
14. Ademola Lookman, Atalanta
15. Nico Williams, Athletic Club
16. Granit Xhaka, Bayer Leverkusen
17. Federico Valverde, Real Madrid
18. Emiliano Martinez, Aston Villa
19. Martin Ødegaard, Arsenal
20. Hakan Çalhanoglu, Inter Milan
Yachine Trophy 2024: The World’s Top Goalkeepers
Martínez led the Yachine Trophy standings but he was followed closely by other outstanding goalkeepers. Unai Simón came in second, with Real Madrid’s Andriy Lunin claiming the third spot. Gianluigi Donnarumma and Mike Maignan rounded out the top five.
1. Emiliano Martínez
2. Unai Simón
3. Andriy Lunin
4. Gianluigi Donnarumma
5. Mike Maignan
6. Yann Sommer
7. Giorgi Mamardashvili
8. Diogo Costa
9. Ronwen Williams
10. Gregor Kobel
Ancelotti and Hayes Shine As Coaches Of the Year
The Ballon d’Or evening celebrated achievements in various categories. Carlo Ancelotti was named Manager of the Year for his exceptional leadership, continuing to set standards in football management. On the women’s side, Emma Hayes earned the Women’s Coach of the Year award, a tribute to her consistent success with Chelsea.
Aitana Bonmatí won her second Ballon d’Or in the women’s category. The Team of the Year awards went to Real Madrid for the men’s category and Barcelona for the women’s category. In the youth category, Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal won the Kopa Trophy, awarded to the best young player.
From Argentina To Aston Villa
Emiliano Martínez’s journey has been one of dedication and resilience. Since his move from Arsenal to Aston Villa, he has grown immensely, establishing himself as one of the best goalkeepers in the world. With Argentina, he has achieved the ultimate success, winning Copa America and the admiration of his countrymen. For Aston Villa, his presence has been pivotal, helping the club secure a Champions League berth and demonstrating his value both on and off the field.
Martínez’s ability to command his area, execute vital saves, and inspire his teammates has set him apart. While he may not label himself the world’s best, the consecutive Yachine Trophies and his spot in the Ballon d’Or rankings speak volumes about his impact on the sport.
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