Corinthians ‘to consider terminating’ José Martínez’s contract | OneFootball

Corinthians are weighing a just-cause termination of Venezuelan midfielder José Martínez’s contract after he ruptured the cruciate ligaments in his left knee during the holidays, according to Café com Setorista.

The club hierarchy has referred the matter to the legal department to assess a rescission. His current deal runs until 31 December 2027.

Martínez returned to club activities on Saturday and reported pain in his left knee. On Sunday, after the defeat to Palmeiras, head coach Dorival Júnior said the player had been sent to the medical department.

On Monday, footage emerged of the midfielder playing in a festive match in Venezuela with a brace on his left knee, and he was filmed limping at the event.

He had already tested the staff’s patience after more than a month’s delay to his return. Dorival had spoken of difficulties communicating with the player and of a shortage of defensive-minded midfielders, increasing the impact of his absence.

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

While he remains unavailable, Dorival has only Raniele and Charles for the role. Allan is expected to bolster the position, on loan from Flamengo until the end of 2026.

Source: Meu Timao