‘Golden’ Martens is proud of recognition: ‘Very important for women’

The left winger of FC Barcelona and Orange was named best football player in Europe by the Italian newspaper Tuttosport last month. “It is very important that women are also recognized with such awards, I am very proud,” said Martens. “I dedicate this trophy to my colleagues.”

Martens (28) had a particularly successful season with Barcelona. The Spanish team won the ‘double’ in their own country and was also the best in the Champions League. Martens was one of the stars in the 4-0 final against Chelsea. The judges of the Tuttosport election, including Van der Sar, preferred Martens as the best football player in Europe over her Spanish teammate Jennifer Hermoso.

France Football’s Golden Ball recently went to another Barcelona football star, Alexia Putellas. Martens finished fifth in that election.

Pedri ‘Golden Boy’

The Dutchman had flown to Turin together with fellow club member Pedri for the Tuttosport football gala. Pedri (19) was allowed to pick up the prize for the ‘Golden Boy’ (greatest talent in Europe). The Barcelona midfielder thus followed in the footsteps of Rafael van der Vaart, Lionel Messi, Mario Götze, Paul Pogba, Kylian Mbappé, Matthijs de Ligt and Erling Haaland.

“A lot of legends have won this award in the past,” said Pedri. “It’s great to get the same award as Lionel Messi, who for me remains the best footballer in the world. An incredible honour.” Pedri played with the Argentinian last season, who switched to Paris Saint-Germain in the summer. “I’m at the best club in the world, I want to be at Barca. It’s a dream to play for this club.”