Jackson Arley Martínez Valencia began his professional career on 3 October 2004, marking his eighteenth birthday with a debut for Independiente Medellín. A prolific striker, he became a consistent scoring threat in South American and European leagues throughout his career, ultimately recording forty international appearances for his native Colombia before retiring in 2020.
Early Career in Colombia
Born in Quibdó in 1986, Martínez joined the youth academy of Independiente Medellín in 2001. After his 2004 debut, he solidified his role in the squad during the 2008 season. His breakthrough year occurred in 2009, when he finished as the top goalscorer of the Torneo Finalización with 18 goals, securing the league title for his team.
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In January 2010, Martínez signed a three-year contract with the Mexican side Chiapas. Over the following seasons, he established himself as a key figure in the Liga MX. Despite facing recurring ankle injuries, he scored 33 goals across 64 appearances. His performance in the Copa Libertadores during the 2011 season, particularly his efforts against Junior, drew significant attention from European clubs.
Dominance in Portugal
Porto signed Martínez in July 2012 for €8.8 million. During his three-year tenure, he earned recognition as the Primeira Liga's top scorer in every season. He recorded 67 goals in 90 appearances for the club.
Final Professional Years
In July 2015, Martínez transferred to Atlético Madrid for €35 million, later moving to Guangzhou Evergrande for €42 million in early 2016. An ankle injury sustained in late 2016 kept him sidelined for two years. He returned to professional football in 2020 with the Portuguese club Portimonense before ending his career.
Fast facts
- Full name: Jackson Arley Martínez Valencia
- Born: 3 October 1986, Quibdó, Colombia
- Primary position: Striker
- First professional club: Independiente Medellín
- Porto transfer fee: €8.8 million
- Atlético Madrid transfer fee: €35 million
- Guangzhou Evergrande transfer fee: €42 million
- International goals: 9
Questions readers ask
How many goals did Jackson Martínez score in the 2014 FIFA World Cup?
He scored two goals against Japan during the tournament.
What was the duration of Martínez's injury break starting in 2016?
He was ruled out for two years following an ankle injury.
