In just a few short years, Jose Andres Martinez has become an integral part of the Philadelphia Union
The Venezuelan quickly became one of the top defensive midfielders in MLS, showing the rest of the league why he’s earned the nickname of El Brujo, meaning wizard in Spanish.
During his first season with the Union, he helped Philadelphia win the 2020 Supporters’ Shield. It was the first trophy in the club’s history and a big deal for the young franchise. Since Martinez helped the Union lift that trophy, they have become one of the more competitive and intriguing teams in MLS, captivating the hearts of fans not just in Pennsylvania but across the nation. And speaking of Pennsylvania, it’s also a state known for its fervent sports culture, including the exciting world of sports betting in PA, which adds an extra layer of excitement to every game Martinez and the Union play.
Who is Jose Martinez?
Born: 7 August 1994 (age 29 years), Maracaibo, Venezuela
Height: 1.78 m
Nationality: Venezuelan
Current team: Philadelphia Union (#8/Midfielder)
Salary: $301,000
How Did Martinez Get to the Union?
Martinez got his start in professional soccer when he was 20 years old. In 2015, he signed with JBL Zulia, a club in his hometown of Maracaibo, Venezuela. He then made the move to Zulia FC, another club in Maracaibo, in December 2017. While with Zulia, Martinez helped the club to win the 2018 Copa Venezuela while also making a historic run to the quarterfinals of the Copa Sudamericana. That helped to draw the attention of clubs outside of Venezuela with Martinez eventually signing with the Philadelphia Union for a transfer fee of $325,000 in December 2019.
Joining the Union
Martinez had a rather unusual start to his time with the Union, as his first season in Philadelphia coincided with the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, when action resumed after the initial shutdown, Martinez was quick to endear himself to his teammates and the Union fans. Martinez showcased his aggression and toughness as a midfielder while helping the Union reach the semifinals of the MLS is Back Tournament in 2020. Philadelphia used that tournament as a jumping-off point for a successful season that saw the Union finish the 2020 campaign with the best record in MLS.
Success continued for Martinez and the Union after that. While Martinez is rarely on the score sheet, his contributions as a defensive midfielder have been undeniable. With Martinez helping to hold down the midfield, the Union reached the Eastern Conference Finals of the 2021 MLS Cup Playoffs and was the runner-up of the MLS Cup Playoffs in 2022. Philadelphia also reached the semifinals of the CONCACAF Champions League in 2021 and 2023 with Martinez playing a key role along the way.
On the International Scene
In addition to being a midfield star for the Union, Martinez also moonlights with the Venezuela National Team. His first international call-up came in October 2020, and since then, Martinez has earned more than 20 caps for his country. Martinez played in 14 of Venezuela’s matches during World Cup Qualifying for the 2022 World Cup and also played in all four of Venezuela’s matches during the 2021 Copa America Tournament. He’s become a key component for the Venezuelan National Team just as he has in Philadelphia and hopes to lead his national team to new heights the same way he has done with the Union.