Thiago Martins
NYC
Center Back
Back Line Anchor
Mar 17, 1995 (31)
Right
6'1"
172 lb
Starting again Friday
Martins (leg) is in the starting lineup for Friday's clash against Nashville.
Analysis: Martins will continue to see action following a minor knock in his return from a prior muscular injury during last weekend's draw with Toronto. Both Martins and Raul Gustavo are now in the initial squad, which could push James Sands to a midfield role, with Jonathan Shore now on the bench. In terms of performance, the Brazilian defender will look to finally produce some defensive output along with his usual passing numbers.
Limps off in return
Martins left with discomfort after 75 minutes in Saturday's 1-1 draw with Toronto.
Analysis: Martins was coming back from a hamstring injury and was unable to record the full match before exiting with apparent pain. Still, it remains to be seen if it's a setback from his muscle issue and whether the new blow will force him to miss time. If he's not fully fit for upcoming action, there will be a change in the starting lineup, with Raul Gustavo likely rejoining James Sands in the central defensive zone.
Starting Saturday
Martins (hamstring) is in the starting XI in the weekend's matchup against Toronto.
Analysis: Martins has completed his recovery after missing one month of action and is now getting the nod over Raul Gustavo at center-back. The experienced defender will look to improve on his season average of 5.5 clearances per game. However, his side has achieved just two clean sheets over 17 MLS matches with him on the field this year.
Carrying questionable tag
Martins (hamstring) is questionable for Saturday's game against New England.
Analysis: Martins has been dealing with a hamstring injury and has missed NYCFC's last two league matches following the Leagues Cup, but his questionable tag suggests the center-back might return for this upcoming clash. If he does, Martins could move straight into the XI, as he's been in the lineup in all but three of New York City's MLS matches in 2026.
Out with hamstring issue
Martins will not be available for Thursday's match against Santos Laguna due to a minor hamstring strain, according to Glenn Crooks.
Analysis: Martins' absence opens the door for Mitja Ilenic to start in the captain's place. The center back's aerial dominance and leadership at the back have made him a key figure for New York City FC, so his absence is a notable one even if the issue is considered minor. Martins is expected to be reassessed as his recovery progresses.
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