C T Online Desk: It was only less than a 12-hour stay for Emiliano Martinez in Dhaka but the Argentine World Cup winner was amazed by the love and hospitality from Bangladesh during his maiden trip to the country Monday.
The 30-year old arrived early in the morning after a long flight, took rest at a hotel before joining a private event arranged by a digital business group.
The Aston Villa goalkeeper then met Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina before flying off to Kolkata, India in the afternoon.
There was no public event for his immense fan base in Bangladesh and neither any press conference but Martinez was a delighted man after the end of the “extraordinary” tour and hoped to visit again.
“I had such an extraordinary journey to Bangladesh engaged with NEXT Ventures and FundedNext. The people here, with their love, care, and unrivaled hospitality, have truly melted my heart. I eagerly anticipate my return to this beautiful country in the near future,” stated the Argentine keeper on an instagram post through a photo with Bangladesh’s Prime Minister.
“I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to the Prime Minister’s Office, the police, the airport authority, and countless others whose names I might not know but whose efforts were no less significant. You have all played a part in crafting this special bond that I now share with Bangladesh.
“So, until my next visit, I bid you farewell, leaving a piece of my heart here. I am forever charmed by Bangladesh Bajpakhi (hawk).”
Earlier, former Bangladesh cricket team captain Mashrafe bin Mortaza, a die-hard fan of Argentina, was over the moon after meeting with Martinez.
Martinez was instrumental in helping Argentina end the long World Cup wait of 36 years as the Lionel Messi-led side beat defending champions France 4-2 on tie-breaker after a thrilling 3-3 draw.
Mashrafe’s wait as a passionate fan was also over when Argentina won the golden trophy.
Martinez attended a ceremony in the morning where Mashrafe, also a lawmaker from the ruling party Awami League, was the invited guest.
Mashrafe appeared on the occasion with daughter Humaira and son Sahel.
They saw Martinez up close and took a picture.
They got an autograph of Martinez on the famous white-blue jersey.
Mashrafe was visibly impressed to see Martinez up close for a while.
He could not imagine that the Albiceleste keeper would show such sincerity.
