Aston Villa star Emi Martinez finds himself in hot water as two-game ban confirmed
The latest Aston Villa news from BirminghamLive as Unai Emery is handed an update on goalkeeper Emi Martinez, who has been hit with a suspension.
by Isaac Seelochan, https://www.birminghammail.co.uk/authors/isaac-seelochan/ · Birmingham LiveEmiliano Martinez will miss Argentina's next two international games after the Aston Villa star was given a two-match ban by FIFA for "offensive behaviour".
The 32-year-old goalkeeper repeated his infamous celebrations from the 2022 World Cup shortly after Argentina defeated Chile on September 6. Martinez was given a replica Copa America trophy post-match - in recognition of Argentina's triumph this summer - before holding it up against his crotch.
Martinez also hit a camera with his gloves as a cameraman approached him on the pitch after the 2-1 defeat to Colombia on September 10. The 32-year-old will now miss World Cup qualifiers against Venezuela and Bolivia in October's international break.
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The Argentina Football Association said that it disagreed with the suspension, but that Martinez was "responsible" for his actions. A statement read: "Despite the defense made by the player and the Argentine Football Association, the Disciplinary Commission of the governing body of World Football made the following decision;
"Martinez is declared responsible for his offensive behaviour and his violation of the principles of fair play (Art. 13 CDF). It should be noted that the Argentine Football Association (AFA) expresses its absolute disagreement with the decision taken by the FIFA disciplinary committee."
Martinez's suspension for Argentina should mean he will be fresh for Unai Emery's team. Villa take on Manchester United on October 6, before the international break, and return to action against Fulham on October 19.
It means the goalkeeper should not have to jet-out thousands of miles to represent his country. Martinez, 32, has played six matches, combined, in the Premier League and Champions League this season - conceding seven goals.
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