Emi Martinez Pays Over Rs 19 Lakh For US Navy Seals Guard Dog To Protect His World Cup Medal

According to a story in the Daily Mail, Argentine goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez has spent £20,000 (nearly Rs. 19 lakhs) on a guard dog to keep an eye on his World Cup winner's medal.

U.S. Navy Seals often use dogs

like the one Martinez reportedly possesses. 

Agencies

Martinez has acquired a Belgian Malinois security dog, the likes of which the SAS and U.S. Navy Seals have used in combat zones.

scottsk9.com

The Daily Star reported that the Aston Villa goalkeeper bought the dog from Elite Protection Dogs to protect his West Midlands home and his World Cup-winning medal.

After having their homes broken into, Mikel Arteta, the head coach of the football team Arsenal, and Hugo Lloris, a goalkeeper for France, bought guard dogs from the company.

Tyson Fury, the heavyweight boxing world champion, and former England stars Ashley Cole and Jack Wilshere have all used the company's services.

As reported in the press, the Belgian Malinois may weigh up to 30 kilograms.

Unsplash

Martinez was a vital part of the final match of Argentina against France in the finals of the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, held on December 18, 2022. He won the golden glove and starred in two penalty shoot-outs. 

The 2022 FIFA World Cup victory by Argentina is commemorated by a tattoo Martinez acquired recently on his thigh.

@DeadlineDayLive

Many people are upset with how Martinez celebrated La Albiceleste's third World Cup victory. 

Along with Lionel Messi, he marched through the streets of Argentina carrying a doll depicting French player Kylian Mbappé, who wore number 10 for his country.

Martinez was also criticized for his gesture after being named the Golden Glove winner and the best goalkeeper. 

Additionally, he was caught on camera making fun of Mbappé in the locker room after the game, an incident likely sparked by Mbappé's trash-talking before the FIFA final match between France and Argentina.

It was claimed earlier this week by the website Fichajes.net, which specializes in the football transfer market, that Aston Villa manager Unai Emery was "desperate" to sell Martinez. 

Martinez was scheduled to meet with club manager Emery to discuss his actions in Qatar, according to Fichajes. Emery later said that he would tell Martinez to "control" his feelings in the future.

Martinez made his way back into the Aston Villa lineup for yesterday's 2-0 victory against Tottenham in the Premier League, but manager Unai Emery decided to sit him on the bench.

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