Aston Villa goalkeeper Emi Martinez has thanked Lionel Messi after both men picked up trophies at the 2023 Ballon d'Or ceremony.
The duo won the 2022 World Cup together for Argentina over the winter, and were recognised for their achievements on the night. Messi won the Ballon d'Or for an incredible eighth time, and Martinez's efforts were also rewarded.
The Villa stopper took home the Yashin Trophy, awarded to the best goalkeeper of the past year, ahead of Manchester City's Ederson. Martinez also placed 15th in the overall Ballon d'Or vote, and received boos from pockets of the attending audience.
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Taking to Instagram after the event, Martinez had a special word for Argentina captain Messi. He wrote: "An unforgettable day for me, my family and the people of Argentina. Congratulations @leomessi for putting Argentina on the top again."
Messi himself has now posted on Instagram after collecting the prestigious award. He has thanked all of his Argentina teammates, which includes Martinez, for helping him to win the trophy.
He said: "I only have words of gratitude for all the people around the world who supported me so much during my career and to whom I want to specially dedicate this award, along with my family who was always by my side.
"This is a Ballon d'Or that I also want to share with my fellow (Argentina teammates), technical body, the employees... Because without the World Cup we achieved together it would have been impossible to win it.
"Congratulations to all the winners and many thanks!"
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