After two seasons with Deportivo JBL del Zulia, Martínez signed with Zulia FC ahead of the Apertura tournament in December 2017.[5] While with Zulia, he earned the 2018 Copa Venezuela title and made a historic run in the Copa Sudamericana; advancing through to the quarter-finals.[6]
Philadelphia Union
In December 2019, Martínez signed a two-year contract with Philadelphia Union competing in Major League Soccer for a transfer fee reported around $325,000.[7] Martínez made his debut start for the Union in a 3-3 draw at Los Angeles FC.[8] During the 2020 season, Martinez grew praise for his quality of play as one of the best defensive midfielders in MLS.[9][10] His first season in MLS finished with 14 regular season starts, contributing two assists, and ultimately resulting in the Union's first trophy, the 2020 Supporters' Shield.[11] In January 2021, Martinez signed a new contract with the Union through the 2022 season, with options for the 2023 and 2024 seasons.[11][12]
On June 21, 2023, Jose Martinez scored his first ever wonder-goal for the Union which was nominated for the MLS Goal of the Year Award