Inter Miami Signs Ex-MLS MVP Josef Martinez

Josef Martinez during a Atlanta United v Toronto match in 2018
Josef Martinez during a Atlanta United v Toronto match in 2018. Photo by Perry McIntyre/ISI/REX/Shutterstock (9780552c)

Inter Miami found a worthy replacement for star striker Gonzalo Higuain, who decided to retire at the end of the 2022 MLS season. The team announced on Wednesday that they had signed former MLS MVP Josef Martinez, who will join the organization on a free transfer.

The move came after Atlanta United decided to use their option to buyout Martinez’s contract and make him a free agent. The 29-year-old player was previously under contract with the franchise through 2023.

“Josef is a champion and adding him to our group is exciting for us as we head into the 2023 season,” said Inter’ sporting director Chris Henderson in a statement. “He’s been one of the best players in the league since he first arrived, and we believe he’ll make a difference here at Inter Miami.”

Josef Martinez is an Atlanta United legend and one of the most accomplished players in MLS history. He had his best season in 2018 when he scored 31 goals in 34 MLS matches and won MLS MVP, MLS Golden Boot, MLS Best XI, and MLS All-Star honors.

Martinez went on a scoring spree the next season as well, finishing the campaign with 27 goals, before tearing his ACL in the first game of the 2020 season. The Venezuelan returned to action after a year but was never the same player again. He only started 12 games this past season, scoring nine goals.

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