Argentina goalkeeper Emi Martinez became the first former Reading player to lift the biggest trophy in the world.
Martinez, who played every minute of the tournament and won the Golden Glove for the best keeper at the competition, played 18 times for the Royals on loan in 2019.
A popular figure during his time in Berkshire, the football club posted an open letter ahead of the final,which finished 3-3 and saw the South Americans win on penalties.
Included in the letter were heartfelt lines, such as "We know we cannot truly lay claim to you. But today you become the first player to have represented Reading Football Club and to play in the World Cup Final. And…once a Royal, always a Royal.
— Reading FC (@ReadingFC) December 18, 2022
"With one appearance for Arsenal that season, another clean sheet at home to FK Qarabag, you arrived in Reading looking for a run of games. That is all you wanted…the no.1 spot to prove yourself. We gratefully supplied you with that opportunity.
"You are a player who was as dedicated to digging your loan club out of a hole as you are to winning the World Cup with Argentina later today.
"From blue and white hoops to blue and white stripes...Good luck Emi."
Now with Aston Villa, the former Arsenal stopper will return to Premier League action on Boxing Day.
Share