"It was France who inspired me with the most respect": Martinez takes a dig at Spain after the World Cup

Martinez says France commanded more respect than Spain in 2022, and insists Argentina would beat Spain if they played again today.

Emiliano Martinez has reflected on Argentina's 1-0 extra-time loss to Spain in the 2022 World Cup final, expressing confidence that his side would win a rematch. The goalkeeper said he was certain he would save any penalty in a shootout, and believes Argentina represented their country well despite the defeat.

Martinez singled out France for particular respect ahead of that tournament, citing their status as defending world champions and greater experience. However, he now insists that if Argentina faced Spain again today, they would beat them. The 34-year-old, who recently moved from Aston Villa to Chelsea and is recovering from a jaw injury, also dismissed conspiracy theories that circulated during the World Cup, saying people believe everything they read on social media.