MLS
Is Ángel di María set to join Messi at Inter Miami?
Given the uncertainty of his future with Benfica, the Herons are keeping an eye on Di María as another potential superstar signing.
Inter Miami has emerged as the most eye catching club in Major League Soccer following the acquisitions of Lionel Messi, Sergio Busquets, Jordi Alba, and Luis Suárez, in addition to clinching their inaugural trophy (the 2023 Leagues Cup), with Messi as the MVP and captain.
Although they were eliminated from the CONCACAF Champions Cup by Rayados in the quarter-finals, they now set their sights on the MLS title, where they currently lead the Eastern Conference with 21 points: six victories, three ties, and two defeats.
Under the guidance of Tata Martini, they have paved the way for powerful clubs like LAFC to also reinforce their squads with world-class players. Such is the case with Hugo Lloris, who arrived this season, and now they will add France’s top scorer, Olivier Giroud. So where else could Miami turn?
Inter Miami option opens for Ángel di María
Journalist Gastón Edul reports that there was an informal conversation to inquire about Ángel di María’s stance and whether he would be interested in joining Inter Miami, although Di María’s primary desire would be to continue, at least for another year, at Benfica if the club offers him a contract extension. His current deal expires in June of this year.
Edul himself maintains that this is only a possibility, as there is nothing concrete, but the interest does exist. Additionally, several factors could complicate his transfer, such as the type of contract, with Messi, Busquets, and Campana being designated players, while Suárez, Nicolás Freire, and Jordi Alba are slightly lower down the pay grade, thus requiring “economic engineering within the existing MLS rules.”
The interest is genuine, though, with Fabrizio Romano also making it known. However, for this to materialize, many factors beyond those mentioned must align. If the move does happen, Inter Miami would have legends from both Barcelona and Real Madrid in their ranks to pursue titles.
At 36 years old, and with confirmation that Di María will not return to Rosario Central, Albiceleste fans are excited at the prospect of seeing him once again, as they did at PSG alongside Messi, but now enjoying what could be the final stage of their footballing careers in Miami.