Dibu Martínez nominated for 2026 Ballon d’Or as one of the world’s top goalkeepers

Emiliano “Dibu” Martínez has added another distinction to a career that has made him one of the leading goalkeepers in world football. He was named among the 10 candidates for the Lev Yashin Trophy during the presentation of the 2026 Ballon d’Or nominees.

The award, presented by France Football, recognizes the best goalkeeper of the season. Martínez shares the shortlist with Yassine Bounou, Thibaut Courtois, Joan García, Gregor Kobel, Édouard Mendy, David Raya, Matvey Safonov, Unai Simón and Vozinha.

The Ballon d’Or gala will be held in London on October 26, 2026, marking the first time the ceremony takes place outside France. The judging period covers the 2025-26 season, from August 1, 2025, to July 31, 2026, including the latest World Cup. A panel of 100 specialist journalists from leading countries in the FIFA ranking will choose the winner.

Martínez’s nomination follows another prominent season for both club and country. At Aston Villa, he helped the team win the Europa League, finish fourth in the English league and qualify for the 2026-27 Champions League. He made 256 official appearances for the club after joining from Arsenal in September 2020.

His departure from Birmingham accelerated after coach Unai Emery increased competition for the position. Aston Villa signed Japan’s Zion Suzuki, who had performed well at the previous World Cup, and selected Dutch goalkeeper Marco Bizot to start the season. Juventus also showed interest before Martínez ultimately moved to Chelsea.

The competition includes a formidable rival in Unai Simón. The Spanish goalkeeper won the 2026 World Cup and went 649 minutes without conceding, surpassing Walter Zenga’s record of 517 minutes set at the 1990 tournament. Simón kept seven clean sheets in eight matches and conceded only once, while also remaining Athletic Club’s first choice in La Liga and the Champions League.