Emiliano Martinez, the FIFA Golden Glove winner for the 2022 World Cup, arrived in Kolkata on Monday for a two-day tour, which has already welcomed some renowned footballers. However, this is the city’s first time hosting a reigning World Cup champion. Martinez played a key role in Argentina’s World Cup victory in Qatar last year, making a number of saves throughout the regular 90 minutes and 30 minutes extra time, as well as denying Kinsgley Coman and Aurelien Tchouameni in the penalty shootout.
As expected Martinez’s visit drew plenty of people at the airport, where he was greeted by Mohun Bagan officials before checking into a five-star hotel on the EM Bypass. Martinez will take part in a number of events lined up for the next two days.
“I’m feeling great. It’s a lovely country. I’m delighted to be here. I’m really excited. I promised I’m gonna come to India so I’m here. It’s a place I always wanted to come,” Martinez told reporters.
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Martinez’s itinerary officially begins on Tuesday afternoon with a programme called ‘Tahader Katha,’ in which the goalkeeper will meet with schoolchildren at Biswa Bangla Mela Prangan.
In the evening, he will be watching an exhibition match between Mohun Bagan All Stars and Kolkata Police All Stars.