Playing for one’s country is the dream of all aspiring soccer players. Playing alongside World Cup champions is reserved for a privileged few. Born in 2005, Jeremías Martinet is the only youth player called up to practice alongside the Argentina Men’s National Team in its friendlies across the U.S. in the last two weeks of March. Just 18 years of age, he is already making a huge splash in the world of soccer.
Martinet is a goalkeeper for the under-20 teams of River Plate, one of the biggest clubs in Argentina, and has, in addition, played for the national under-20 team in the past. This tour will be his second experience with the senior national team, as he had previously been a practice player during Argentina’s friendlies against Brazil and Uruguay in November of 2023.
Last Friday, March 22, Argentina played El Salvador at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia. The team’s hotel was surrounded by passionate fans, trying to catch a glimpse of the reigning world champions. The onlookers aren’t the only ones who have provided a warm welcome for Martinet.
“The team has been incredibly welcoming, I’m included in all the drills and truly learning a lot from such amazing professionals,” Martinet said. “Of course, being around the national team is a dream come true.”
Although he is finding his feet now, his path to the national team was not a simple one. Martinet was born in Santiago, Chile and his father is from France, allowing him to identify with the national team of Chile, France or Argentina.
“The decision wasn’t easy, I had a lot pulling me to different sides,” Martinet said. “Chile called first, but after three or four days, I received the call from the Argentine U-20 coach, and I ultimately decided on the country I grew up in and love.”
Martinet grew up in the Argentine province of Cordoba, which has produced famous Argentine players such as Manchester City star Julian Alvarez and Argentine idol Mario Kempes. He started his soccer journey in Cordoba, playing for Club Lasallano, later moving to Club Atalaya, until finally relocating to Buenos Aires to join River Plate in 2023.
“River is beautiful, and so is Buenos Aires,” Martinet said. “I’ve been able to really discover the city and enjoy all the new experiences. I live 10 blocks from the stadium, so I am around the club all the time.”
As a full time athlete, Martinet’s routine has changed vastly. He described his daily schedule.
“I wake up, and immediately have to go to practice for three hours in the morning,” Martinet said. “Then, I go back home, eat lunch, and usually take a nap, which is almost mandatory in Argentina. In the afternoon, I have practice again and go to the gym, and after, I have dinner and sleep. Overall, it is very demanding, but the club has a very good structure to help us succeed.”
In the national team, he is now spending time with his biggest idol, Emiliano “Dibu” Martinez. Martinez is the starting goalkeeper for Aston Villa in the English Premier League, and one of the most important players in the Argentine team. His last-minute save in the World Cup final is held as one of the most important moments in Argentine soccer.
“Dibu is someone who really inspires me,” Martinet said. “Everything he says I soak it up, and try to learn from him because he has the trajectory and experience that I don’t.”
Aside from Martinez, Martinet spent time with Lionel Messi during Argentina’s friendlies in November.
“Meeting Messi was incredible, something I think everyone from my generation aspires to,” Martinet said. “I try to enjoy everything that has been happening over the past few months because it’s something that only happens to a few people.”
Martinet is a very promising player, who due to his stellar performances in the youth leagues was given the opportunity to be a practice player for the national team. Now, his goal is to win his division with River Plate, and hopefully be recalled as a practice player to join the national team as it plays the Copa America in the U.S. this summer. He is a testament to the dedication and passion one must have in order to succeed in the competitive world of soccer. His success has been inspiring and his future remains bright.
