For the rest of my life! Emiliano Martinez reveals shocking permanent damage after World Cup sacrifice
Emiliano Martinez has made a heartbreaking revelation about the physical price he paid to represent Argentina at the 2026 World Cup! The goalkeeper has shown that he can no longer completely close his right hand after playing through a serious finger fracture, admitting that the damage could remain with him for the rest of his life.
Details: Speaking to journalist Gaston Edul, Martinez demonstrated how the ring finger on his right hand no longer bends properly. The injury dates back to May 2026, when he fractured the finger during the warm-up before Aston Villa's Europa League final against Freiburg. Despite the damage, he played in the match and helped his team win 3-0.
After medical examinations revealed the severity of the fracture, Martinez feared he would miss the World Cup. However, he and Argentina's medical staff decided against immediate surgery. Instead, the goalkeeper wore a plastic splint and special protective glove, allowing him to continue playing despite considerable pain.
The Argentine revealed that he initially trained with volleyballs because ordinary footballs caused too much discomfort. He also recalled struggling to land on his injured hand during training. Nevertheless, he participated throughout the tournament as Argentina reached the final against Spain.
Months later, the consequences remain visible. Martinez cannot fully bend the injured finger or close his fist normally. He believes the limitation will be permanent and admitted that another operation may eventually be necessary to reduce the pain. The revelation highlights the extraordinary sacrifices professional footballers sometimes make to represent their countries.
Reminder: Emiliano Martínez broke his finger before the Europa League final while playing for Aston Villa.
Miguel Solomons
Dailysports's expert
