Corinthians and José Martínez discuss mutual exit after injury

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Central do Timão

·12 febbraio 2026

Corinthians and José Martínez discuss mutual exit after injury

By Henrique Vigliotti/ Central do Timão Editorial Team

The saga between Corinthians and the Venezuelan midfielder José Martínez is nearing its end, as the discovery of a ligament injury in his left knee, which will keep him out for the entire 2026 season, has exhausted the patience of the Timão's management.

Central do Timão has learned that discussions between Corinthians, Martínez, and his staff are moving towards an amicable termination. In this scenario, the club is expected to negotiate the payment of part of the amounts to the player and his representatives to facilitate the contract termination. The alternative of a unilateral termination through legal means, previously considered, would entail higher costs and could result in future disputes with the athlete.

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Photo: Rodrigo Coca/Ag. Corinthians

Both parties agreed that the atmosphere for a potential stay of Martínez at Corinthians became unfeasible after his relationship with coach Dorival Jr. reached its limit due to the player's lack of response to the technical staff and delay in returning to the club, factors that made the environment unsustainable.

Under the agreement, Corinthians will pay 30% of the salary for 2026, in 12 installments, in addition to covering the costs of surgery to repair the torn cruciate ligament in the athlete's left knee. In return, Martínez will forgo the remainder of the 2026 earnings and the full salary for 2027.

José Martínez played in 70 matches for Timão, scored two goals, and provided two assists, in addition to winning the Paulista Championship and the 2025 Copa do Brasil titles.

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