This has been a tumultuous season for the Philadelphia Union. With every high moment, there seems to be an equal low moment. Now, with the team on fire through Leagues Cup, a massive blow is dealt to the team.
The Union just had their best win of the season. A 4-2 win on the road against their rival Cincinnati. With the win, the Union moves to the Leagues Cup quarterfinals. In the midst of a rough 2024 season, it seemed things were finally turning around.
That is until a massive blow was sent through the roster.
The heart of the Team Is Leaving
Just shortly after the Union win, news broke that Union midfielder Jose Martinez is on the move. Martinez will be transferred to The Corinthians. The heart, soul, and the most passionate player in the Union, is heading out.
Jose Martinez and Philly fans fell in love at first sight. Making his debut in 2020, Martinez showed that his passion and effort made Philly the perfect place for him. Not to mention his best ability, to get under anybody’s skin without fail.
Martinez became a fan favorite immediately. It is not a coincidence the Union entered its best era with him at the forefront. He was a pivotal piece of a record-setting Union defense and set the tone when the Union needed it most. It is just unfortunate timing that this move comes when the team finally gains some footing.
It is the Best Move for Business
This move should not come as a surprise at all. Martinez was at the top of the list of players that would likely be transferred. Last week, the Union finalized a deal to bring in a promising defensive midfielder, Danley Jean Jacques. A move that was likely the last hurdle in getting a deal for Martinez done.
The financials of the deal are not set yet. However, for a 30-year-old midfielder, if the Union can get more than they spent on Jacques, it is great business.
Martinez shined not only for the Union but for his national team, Venezuela, as well. Coming off an impressive showing at Copa America, Martinez’s value would not be as high as it is now.
Martinez was one of Ernst Tanner’s first diamonds in the rough finds. Martinez joined the Union from Zulia FC for just a $295,000 transfer fee. Now, the Union will likely earn at least four times that amount for him.
Very Rough Timing
This move was going to hurt no matter what. Jose Martinez is a fan favorite right behind Ale Bedoya and Andre Blake. However, the timing of the move makes things even more unfortunate.
The Union are in their best stretch of play in 2024. They are tearing through the Leagues Cup. Considering the club currently sits outside the MLS Playoffs, this is likely their last chance at a trophy this season. Now, they will have to figure out how to adjust to life without Martinez.
Danley Jean Jacques is a very promising player that fans should be excited about. However, the Union has a history of being on the wrong side of slow paperwork to get deals completed. There will likely be a period that the Union will need to hang on without a defensive anchor in the midfield.
Look for Leon Flach to slide into Martinez’s spot for the time being. While Flach brings a similar defensive intensity, he just doesn’t have the offensive game to truly replace Martinez.
Jose Martinez became a fan favorite for the Union. While their time together appears to be over, Union fans will be happy to welcome him back in the future. Perhaps even to have his name raised in the Union Ring of Honor.
Featured Image: Wes Shephered/PHLSportsNation
The post Jose Martinez is on the Move appeared first on Philadelphia Sports Nation.