Ballon d’Or 2023: “We must respect athletes”, Emiliano Martinez whistled after his award in Paris

The behavior of Emiliano Martinez in the World Cup final is not yet digested by some. Proof of this is the whistles against the Argentinian goalkeeper on Monday evening when his name was announced for the win of the Yachine 2023 trophy, which rewards the best goalkeeper of the season.

Decisive and exceptional in the final of the last World Cup against the Blues, including his legendary save against Kolo Muani at the very end of the match or a very good penalty shootout, Emiliano Martinez, who plays for Aston Villa, was rewarded for his exploits.

But his deplorable attitude after the meeting, notably by criticizing the French team and Kylian Mbappé, did not help his reputation. Which earned him this little reminder Monday evening at the Théâtre du Châtelet. All under the dark gaze of Kylian Mbappé and Didier Deschamps, also present for the 2023 Ballon d'Or ceremony. Right next door, Lionel Messi was, unsurprisingly, in heaven.

“We are here, we must respect the athletes, let them express themselves,” insisted Didier Drogba, co-presenter of the ceremony, when new whistles prevented Martinez from speaking. In the process, the Argentinian was able to finish his speech and leave the stage to applause.