‘Pain is difficult to explain’: Dibu Martinez casts doubt on Argentina future

Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano "Dibu" Martinez has cast doubt over his international future following the team's defeat in the FIFA World Cup 2026 final, saying he will reflect on whether it is "time to step aside."

Martinez, who returned to a warm reception from supporters in Buenos Aires despite the disappointment of the final defeat, shared an emotional message on social media expressing his heartbreak at missing out on a second consecutive World Cup title.

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"I dreamed that we would win it again. I dreamed of bringing it to Argentina and making history once again," the Aston Villa goalkeeper wrote.

The 33-year-old then raised questions about his future with the national team.

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"The truth is; the pain is difficult to explain. There are many things to reflect on and see how to move forward and whether it is time to step aside," he said.

Martinez apologised to Argentina supporters for failing to help secure a fourth World Cup title.

"I am truly sorry. I tried my best to help my country and my teammates."

Since making his senior debut against Chile in a World Cup qualifier in June 2021, Martinez has established himself as one of Argentina's most influential players. Regarded as a leader on and off the pitch, he has been a key figure in the team's success during Lionel Scaloni's tenure.

After conceding just one goal in the group stage of the 2026 World Cup, Martinez faced tougher tests in the knockout rounds, letting in five goals across Argentina's next three matches. Despite that, he remained one of the team's standout performers, producing a series of crucial saves to keep Argentina in contention.

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In the final, the Aston Villa goalkeeper made 11 saves -- the most by any goalkeeper in a World Cup final since records began in 1966. He ended the tournament with 20 saves overall, the third-highest total at the competition, behind Paraguay's Orlando Gill (28) and Curaçao's Eloy Room (21).

Martinez is currently under contract with Aston Villa and has been linked with a move to Juventus during the summer transfer window.

Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni also hinted at uncertainty over his own future after the defeat.

"I'll fulfil my contract and then we'll see. I need time to think because I don't know if I'll be able to do something as big as this again. Maybe we'll have to talk," Scaloni told reporters after the match.