After news broke that the New York City Football Club turned down an offer from Ajax in a deal that would have sent Alonso Martinez to the Dutch Club, it’s clear that the NYCFC Striker’s time with the New York City Football Club may be coming to a close. At 14 goals this season in 24 matches (after 16 last year in 26) Martinez’s skills have been a massive impact this year on the Bronx club, but
When reports surfaced that Ajax had tabled an offer for Alonso Martínez, it felt like the inevitable next chapter for a player who has quietly blossomed into one of New York City FC’s most valuable assets. Yet, the deal never materialized. NYCFC, in no uncertain terms, declined to part with the 25-year-old Costa Rican, leaving Ajax to look elsewhere and raising bigger questions: how much longer can Martínez realistically remain in the Bronx?
Ajax’s Interest: A Marker of Value
For a European club of Ajax’s pedigree to circle around Martínez is significant. The Eredivisie giant has long been a springboard for talent from South America and CONCACAF, polishing diamonds before flipping them to Europe’s elite leagues. Their pursuit of Martínez confirms what many MLS observers have noted for months: his pace, movement, and tactical flexibility are built for the European game.
It also underlines how far he’s come. Signed by NYCFC as a depth option, Martínez has grown into a starter capable of unlocking defenses, linking well with teammates, and offering a consistent threat on the counter. That Ajax even came calling is a testament to both his individual development and NYCFC’s ability to scout undervalued talent.
Why NYCFC Said No
NYCFC’s refusal wasn’t surprising in the short term. With the squad still searching for stability in the attack, Martínez has become indispensable. The front office likely weighed the Ajax offer against their current competitive window and concluded that selling him now would risk undermining the season.
There’s also the business calculation. Martínez’s stock is still climbing. If Ajax is interested now, it’s fair to assume there will be more bidders—and bigger offers—within the next 6–12 months. From a City Football Group perspective, holding onto Martínez could mean a more lucrative payday down the line.
The Clock is Ticking
Still, refusing Ajax doesn’t erase the obvious: Martínez’s future lies beyond MLS. He’s 25, approaching the prime of his career, and his skill set is perfectly suited to a higher-tempo European environment. Even if NYCFC can hold off suitors for now, the odds of keeping him through the 2025 season feel slim.
For Martínez himself, ambition will play a role. Like many young talents from Costa Rica, the lure of Europe has always been the dream. Ajax’s interest may not have borne fruit, but it undoubtedly validated his trajectory. Players don’t forget that kind of attention, and agents rarely let it die quietly.
What This Means for NYCFC
The broader issue for NYCFC is planning. Losing Martínez within a year feels increasingly likely. Whether it’s Ajax returning with a stronger bid or another European side jumping in, NYCFC must brace for life without one of their most dangerous wide attackers. Depth pieces can help in the short term, but replacing Martínez’s mix of speed, vision, and work rate will take serious investment.
In the meantime, supporters should enjoy him while he’s here. Each match could be one step closer to his European move. The Ajax deal may have been nixed, but as is the nature of Major League Soccer, in all likelihood, it was only the beginning.
