Atlanta United striker Josef Martinez is training by himself not because of COVID-19 protocols, but because he is trying to regain his fitness, Atlanta United president Darren Eales said Wednesday.

Though vaccinated against COVID, Martinez tested positive while with the Venezuelan men’s national team competing in the Copa America in Brazil. As a result, Martinez spent at least two weeks in a hotel room in which he couldn’t work on his fitness. Because Martinez also is still recovering from the knee injury sustained last year, the team doesn’t want to push him too quickly.

Eales said he isn’t sure if Martinez will be available for Thursday’s game at Nashville. He said he thinks it’s more likely that Martinez will return for the July 17 game against New England at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.

Martinez has two goals in seven appearances this season. Atlanta United has been shut out in its past three games and is winless in its past six.

About the Author

Keep Reading

Atlanta United forward Emmanuel Latte Lath (19) celebrates after scoring during the second half of a soccer game against New York City FC in March 2024, at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta. (Jason Allen/AJC)

Credit: Atlanta Journal-Constitution

Featured

Pinky Cole's Ponce City Market location in Atlanta, Georgia, 'Bar Vegan', during lunch time on April 5, 2024. (Jamie Spaar for the Atlanta Journal Constitution)

Credit: Jamie Spaar