Jose Martinez named to MLS All-Star roster

Jose Martinez, you are an MLS All-Star.

The Philadelphia Union’s enforcer No. 6 was named an MLS All-Star, the team announced on Tuesday. The 2023 MLS All-Star game, which will be played on Wednesday, July 19 against Arsenal, will be Martinez’ first.

HEY NOW YOU'RE AN ALL-STAR ⭐️

Congratulations to @JoseAndresMT8 on being named a 2023 #MLSAllStar!#DOOP | @MLS pic.twitter.com/y0qtluM1pV

— Philadelphia Union (@PhilaUnion) June 27, 2023

Martinez has made a name for himself as one of MLS’ best defensive midfielders since his arrival. Now 28, Martinez has led the league in recoveries among midfielders since 2022. Thus far into the 2023 season, he has won 20 tackles, blocked eight shots, and recorded 20 interceptions. Across his MLS career, Martinez has also recorded 11 assists in four seasons.

The midfielder also recently recorded his first MLS goal after 85 unsuccessful shots, which gave the Union a draw against Orlando City SC and placed Martinez at No. 4 on the SportsCenter Top 10 plays.

.@MLS GOAL OF THE YEAR????? BRUJO BLAST TO EQUALIZE 🤯🤯🤯

Watch with #MLSSeasonPass on @AppleTV: https://t.co/PA9hj5Nbsh#DOOP | #ORLvPHI 2-2 pic.twitter.com/XT5TXvygOG

— Philadelphia Union (@PhilaUnion) June 22, 2023

Martinez was the only Philadelphia Union player named to the All-Star roster from the Union, even though several other players, notably Julian Carranza, Jakob Glesnes, and Kai Wanger, put forward strong cases. While he didn’t earn his way onto the team via fan or media vote, Martinez made the roster by selection of MLS All-Star coach and D.C. United manager Wayne Rooney.

Martinez, known as “El Brujo,” earned the 15th All-Star roster spot in Union history, and is the 11th individual player in the club to earn the honor.