Corinthians 'to consider' terminating José Martínez's contract after knee injury | OneFootball

According to Café com Setorista, Corinthians are considering terminating Venezuelan midfielder José Martínez’s contract for just cause after he suffered a left knee cruciate ligament rupture during his holiday. His deal runs until 31 December 2027.

He returned to club activities on Saturday reporting pain in the same knee. On Sunday, after the defeat to Palmeiras, head coach Dorival Júnior said he had been sent to the medical department.

On Monday, images emerged of Martínez playing in a festive match in Venezuela wearing a brace on his left knee, and videos from the event showed him limping.

He had already tested the staff’s patience by arriving back more than a month late. Dorival Júnior has spoken of difficulties communicating with the player and of a shortage of defensive midfielders, which amplified Martínez’s absence.

Martínez travelled home during the break to regularise his passport, but was then unable to return to Brazil after border closures amid the political crisis. He told the club he applied for the new document on 13 January.

In his absence, Dorival Júnior has only two options for the role, Raniele and Charles. The squad should now be reinforced by Allan, on loan from Flamengo until the end of 2026.

Source: Meu Timao