ASTON VILLA star Emiliano Martinez has been suspended from Argentina’s next two matches because of “offensive behaviour”.
Martinez, 32, has been banned over some controversial incidents in the Albiceleste’s last two matches against Chile and Colombia earlier this month.
The Argentine Football Association (AFA) confirmed the goalkeeper will miss the national team’s next 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Venezuela and Bolivia in October.
The ex-Arsenal ace was initially penalised for celebrating the Copa America by making a lewd gesture with the cup, which was presented in Argentina for the first time after Lionel Scaloni’s men won it in the US.
That incident took place three weeks ago after a 3-0 win over Chile in a World Cup qualifier at the Monumental.
The Argentine was also punished for slapping a local television camera after a 2-1 loss at Colombia in another World Cup qualifier two weeks ago.
Read More on Football
The AFA released the following statement: “Damian Emiliano Martinez is being held responsible for his offensive behaviour and violation of the principles of fair play.”
Argentina chiefs added that they disagreed with the Fifa Disciplinary Committee’s decision.
Martinez’s X-rated celebration after the Chile game was similar to the gesture he made after the 2022 World Cup final that saw Argentina beating France on penalties following an exciting 3-3 draw.
On both occasions “Dibu” celebrated by placing the trophy on his groin while gesturing to the fans.
Most read in Football
The keeper claimed after the tournament in Qatar that his gesture was “stupid” before repeating it in Argentina.
Martinez previously said: “It was a stupid thing, it’s the only thing I’m not proud of.”
The Villa star added last month: “I never try to upset the fans, never.
“I just try to slow things down when the game is not going well for us, I try to kick the ball as hard as I can to the other side.
“I don’t swear, I don’t insult anyone. I don’t cross any lines, I never do.”
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
