Editions
Los 40 USA
Scores
Follow us on
Hello

MLS

Inter Miami’s injury issues: Messi, Suárez, Busquets...

Inter Miami returned to Florida after their Asian tour. Newell’s will be their last test before the start of the MLS season.

Inter Miami's Lionel Messi and his teammates arrive at the Hong Kong International Airport for the soccer club's first international tour, in Hong Kong, China February 2, 2024. REUTERS/Lam Yik
LAM YIKREUTERS

After over 20 days on the road, Inter Miami landed in Florida early this morning after playing the final game of their Asian tour. While the team’s upcoming training schedule remains unknown, the match against Newell’s Old Boys will be the final test for the Herons before kicking off the MLS regular season.

The preseason tour did not go as well as planned in terms of results, however, there is a certain air of positivity at the club going through an early phase of growth. The big concerns now lie with the injured players, with particular emphasis on the situations of Leo Messi, Luis Suárez and Sergio Busquets.

Inter Miami midfielder Sergio Busquets on the ground against Vissel Kobe.
Full screen
Inter Miami midfielder Sergio Busquets on the ground against Vissel Kobe.PHILIP FONGAFP

Busquets blow

Suárez’s knee problems have been causing him trouble since his spell in Spain, while the club’s staff continue to monitor Messi, who started on the bench in Wednesday’s friendly. There is growing concern about Busquets, with tests still to be carried out on the midfielder. The former Barcelona man had to withdraw after half an hour in Tokyo on Wednesday after suffering a blow to the ankle.

More Miami signings

The club could bring in more reinforcements for head coach Tata Martino before the window closes on 24 March. In recent weeks, Miami have tried to sign Facundo Medina from Boca Juniors and Agustin Palavecino and Pablo Solari from River Plate without success. Long-term absentees Facu Farias, Benja Cremaschi, and now possibly Busquets, could force the club to look for replacements.