LAFC manager cites geopolitical factors in David Martinez transfer to Midtjylland
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 5, 2026, 6:39 PM
Last updated Sep 5, 2026
LAFC manager Marc dos Santos recently addressed the transfer of winger David Martinez to the Danish club Midtjylland, citing geopolitical hurdles as a primary factor in the player's departure. Martinez, a 20-year-old talent who recorded six goals and two assists in 18 appearances for the club, reportedly struggled with life in Southern California while separated from his family. Dos Santos noted that current diplomatic relations between Venezuela and the United States hindered the ability for Martinez's family to join him, complicating his transition. The move, reportedly valued at $8.5 million, occurred after the player helped guide LAFC to the 2026 Concacaf Champions Cup semifinals. LAFC, which is currently navigating a five-match winless streak in league play, prepares for a fixture against Real Salt Lake on September 5.
- •David Martinez joined Midtjylland this month for a reported $8.5 million transfer fee.
- •Martinez earned the 2026 Concacaf Champions Cup Best Young Player award.
- •LAFC enters a match against Real Salt Lake on September 5 on a five-match winless streak.
- •Family separation and immigration barriers were cited as key factors in the player's difficulty adapting to Southern California.
- 6:39 PMYahoo Sports — LAFC manager says US-Venezuela relations a factor in David Martinez move
"LAFC manager Marc dos Santos said David Martinez struggled off the field in Southern California because his family from Venezuela couldn't join him.
Sources
External linksOriginal reporting and copyright belong to the linked sources. SportsNewsReport.com aggregates and links — it does not republish full articles.
Related Stories
Last 14 days
MLS•Oct 18, 2026, 8:35 AMMessi scores twice, takes season tally to 25 in Miami win at Atlanta
MLS•Oct 18, 2026, 8:17 AMSan Jose Earthquakes Clinch Playoffs, Extend Unbeaten Streak- MLS•Oct 18, 2026, 5:09 AMGabriel Pirani scores equalizer in four-goal first half as Galaxy and San Diego play to 2-2 draw
MLS•Oct 18, 2026, 2:35 AMSan Diego FC vs Seattle Sounders- MLS•Oct 18, 2026, 2:04 AMAndres Perea scores a goal for NYCFC in 1-1 tie with LAFC
MLS•Oct 15, 2026, 6:27 AMGuilherme charges toward MLS Newcomer of the Year award