Emiliano Martinez News: Avoids surgery on finger

Martinez (finger) revealed he chose not to undergo surgery on a fractured ring finger on his right hand in order to be available for the World Cup, and confirmed he will be able to play without a protective finger kit for the next match, according to his own statement, per Mundo Albiceleste. "I can now play without a finger kit for the next game. I decided not to have surgery. I had a bad time. I came here very prepared. I still haven't trained with the group, always with Martin Tocalli. The coach has always supported me and that has given me a lot of courage."

Martinez acknowledged the difficulty of his situation but credited the support of coach Lionel Scaloni, goalkeeping coach Martin Tocalli, colleagues Geronimo Rulli and Juan Musso, and the medical staff for helping him through the recovery process. His decision to forego surgery reflects the importance he places on being available for the defending world champions, and his ability to now play without the protective kit is a significant step forward in his recovery heading into the knockout stage of the tournament.