It’s been quite the week of firsts for Philadelphia Union’s 28-year-old midfielder José Martinez.
On Wednesday, June 21, Martinez netted his first-ever MLS goal at last during the team’s 2-2 draw against Orlando City SC. He did so in an unforgettable fashion, booting the ball from far outside of the box, equalizing the score in the 90th minute.
The awe-inspiring golazo garnered attention from across the league and beyond, earning both MLS Goal of the Matchday 20 honors and a number four spot on SportsCenter Top 10. That was just the beginning of Martinez’s memorable week.
Less than one week later, on Tuesday at the conclusion of training, Head Coach Jim Curtin gathered the team for a special announcement.
For the first time in his career, midfielder José Martinez earned a spot on the MLS All-star gameday roster.
"When the team has success, the individual awards and honors start to come," Curtin said.
"New environment new team. It takes a little bit of time to get acclimated to the game in this league, and each year he raised his level. I think he was deserving in past years as well, and it's a good lesson for our younger guys, especially, that if you do put the work in the individual accolades come and he's really deserving."
As applause erupted on the practice field, Martinez was greeted by his months-old, Jack, sporting a Union All-Star onesie to celebrate the occasion.
With his child in his arms, surrounded by support from his teammates, Martinez was soon handed an iPad which played a video featuring congratulatory words from his friends, family, and Philadelphia Phillies pitcher Ranger Suarez, sweetening the already emotional occasion.
Martinez has been a part of the club since 2020, establishing himself as a dependable starter during his four-year tenure. Affectionately known as El Brujo, Jose Martinez has also become a fan favorite, constantly entertaining Union faithful with his dance moves and other antics captured on social media.
It was a well-deserved week for Martinez, who will have the opportunity to line up against one of the sports most dominant teams in the MLS All-Star Game presented by Target. The selected squad will take on English Premier League side Arsenal FC at Audi Field in Washington, D.C., on Wednesday, July 19.
Sage Hurley - @SageHurl
