Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez's finger fracture casts doubt on World Cup debut

Emiliano Martínez finger fracture World Cup 2026 Argentina opening match

Argentina’s first‑choice goalkeeper Emiliano “Dibu” Martínez suffered a fracture to the ring finger of his right hand during the Europa League final with Aston Villa in late May. Team doctor Alfredo Blanco explained that bone healing typically requires four to six weeks, meaning the injury occurred just before the final pre‑World Cup preparations.

Coach Lionel Scaloni said that if the bandage can be removed and the fracture shows callus formation, Martínez may be cleared to train, but his availability for Argentina’s opening match on 16 June 2026 against Algeria in Kansas City remains uncertain. The goalkeeper has been seen training with one hand, focusing on footwork and ball control.

Argentina will complete a friendly against Iceland the same night before the tournament, where they will compete in Group J with Austria, Algeria and Jordan, hoping to repeat their 2022 success.

Sources

Cuenta regresiva para el Mundial: ‘Dibu’ Martínez continúa con su recuperación, ¿estará vs. Argelia? [www.canalnet.tv]

3 months ago

¿Dibu Martínez llega al inicio del Mundial 2026?: Scaloni explica su lesión [rpp.pe]

4 months ago