Emi Martinez: Argentina World Cup Winning Goalie Predicts Ballon d’Or Success for Mbappe

• Emiliano Martinez has predicted future success for Kylian Mbappe
• The World Cup-winning goalkeeper was involved in a series of Mbappe taunts
• He has since apologized for his actions and opened up on his conversation with the Frenchman after the World Cup final

Emiliano Martinez has forecasted future Ballon d'Or success for Kylian Mbappe while providing details on what he told him after the World Cup final.

The Argentina and Aston Villa goalkeeper dominated the headlines for both the right and wrong reasons after Argentina dethroned France as world champions.

Martinez was the difference between France and a third World Cup trophy, pulling off a last-gasp save against Randal Kolo Muani.

He also used his imposing figure to his advantage during the post-match penalty shootouts, saving one of the kicks as La Albiceleste won its first Mundial since 1986.

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After the shootout success, Martinez took centre stage for his 'bad boy' antics. First with an indecent gesture with his Golden Glove award then going on a Mbappe taunting spree.

He has since come under backlash and has rightfully rendered an unqualified apology for his actions.

Reflecting on the moment, Martinez revealed his discussion with Mbappe on the pitch.

“I told him that it was a pleasure to play against him and that he almost won this match [World Cup Final] alone, the 30-year-old shot-stopper told France Football as quoted by PSG Report.

The giant goalkeeper also predicted Ballon d'Or glory for Mbappe when Lionel Messi eventually retires.

"He has immense talent. When Messi stops, I am sure Kylian will win many Ballon d’Ors.”

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Mbappe shortlisted for FIFA Best awards

Meanwhile, Martinez's prediction might not be far-fetched following the nomination of Kylian Mbappe in the final shortlist of the 2022 FIFA The Best Awards, per MARCA.

The 24-year-old French star is among a trio of final candidates including PSG teammate Lionel Messi and compatriot Karim Benzema, who is the current holder of the coveted Ballon d'Or prize.

Mbappe's outstanding display at the 2022 World Cup particularly in the Grand Finale puts him in good standing to win his first-ever prestigious individual award.

But will face stiff competition from Leo Messi, who crowned himself for many as 'the best in history' after winning the Mundial in Qatar.

Mbappe responds to Martinez's mockery

Earlier, Sports Brief reported that Argentina goalkeeper Emi Martinez has engaged in endless mockery of Kylian Mbappe, from asking for a minute's silence for him to carrying a toy with his face pasted on it, according to the Mirror.

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Speaking to the media after the match, as quoted by GFFN, Mbappe gave an unbothered response to the charade from the Aston Villa goalkeeper and from Argentina fans.

“They are not my problem. I don’t have the energy to waste on such futile things,” he said.