Emiliano Martinez is “doling out £20,000 for a GUARD DOG used by US Navy SEALs and the SAS to protect his Argentine World Champion’s medal at home” after returning to Aston Villa service following their controversial celebrations
- Emi Martinez bought a Belgian Malinois guard dog to protect his home
- Martinez made the purchase to protect his world champion’s medal
- The goalkeeper was criticized after his post-World Cup final antics
- Several footballers seek protection services after a spate of thefts at UK homes
Argentina and Aston Villa goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez has tried to protect his world champion’s medal by reportedly paying £20,000 for a guard dog.
The 30-year-old was instrumental in Argentina’s World Cup success, picking up the golden glove during the tournament in Qatar and starring in two penalty shootouts, but was criticized for his antics in the final and in the celebrations following the triumph .
Martinez has purchased a Belgian Malinois guard dog that has been used by the SAS and US Navy Seals in combat zones, according to the Daily Star.
Emiliano Martinez has reportedly engaged a guard dog to protect his World Cup medal
The watchdog reportedly costs at least 20,000 pounds and weighs up to 30kg.
Martinez has reportedly made the purchase of Elite Protection Dogs to protect his family in the West Midlands as well as his World Cup winner’s medal.
Several stars have tried to step up their security in recent years, with dozens of high-profile footballers being targeted by thieves.
Arsenal head coach Mikel Arteta and French goalkeeper Hugo Lloris are among football stars who have bought watchdogs from the company in the past.
Former English stars Ashley Cole and Jack Wilshere and world heavyweight boxing champion Tyson Fury also used the company.
Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta is among football stars buying guard dogs to protect his home
Several sports stars have turned to watchdogs to bolster their security procedures
Martinez returned to Aston Villa training last week after winning the world title with Argentina in Qatar.
His celebrations in Buenos Aires sparked controversy when he goaded France’s Mbappe by holding a baby doll with the star’s face on it during Argentina’s parade.
Martinez also made an obscene gesture after receiving the Golden Glove for the tournament’s best goalkeeper, leading to further criticism of his actions.
Martinez’s antics following Argentina’s World Cup triumph have drawn criticism
Asked about his goalkeeper’s antics in Qatar, his club boss Unai Emery confirmed he would ask Martinez to “control his emotions” from now on.
According to reports from Spain, Emery Martinez is keen to sell in January after being unfazed by his post-World Cup antics.
Martinez returned to the Aston Villa squad for yesterday’s 2-0 Premier League win over Tottenham but was left on the bench by Emery.