José Martínez delay frustrates Corinthians staff as Brazil return remains unclear | OneFootball

Corinthians’ draw with São Paulo on Sunday came without José Martínez, who is yet to return to Brazil for the 2026 season. His prolonged absence is causing frustration within the coaching staff.

Head coach Dorival Júnior has not been satisfied with the communication between the parties, with his last message unanswered and no updates from the player, who remains in Venezuela to reissue his passport. According to Itatiaia, the player has been in contact only with executive Marcelo Paz and market analysis manager Renan Bloise.

He had been expected back at the weekend, but there is now no return date. After the Majestoso at Neo Química Arena, Dorival indicated that Martínez must repair his standing within the group and regain trust before returning to his best.

Martínez renewed his passport during the off-season, as the old document would have prevented him from playing international fixtures such as the Libertadores group stage. The process coincided with a political crisis in Venezuela that closed the borders, and Day Rodríguez from the women’s team also saw her return delayed.

The midfielder has not played since 21 December, the Copa do Brasil triumph against Vasco da Gama, when he started. He has not trained at CT Grava and missed the State matches against Ponte Preta and Red Bull Bragantino.

Without Martínez, Corinthians face Santos on Thursday at 19:30 at Vila Belmiro in the fourth round of the Paulistão.

Source: Meu Timao