Inter Miami’s roster turnaround continues.
After failing to make the playoffs in 2023, the organization is taking the proper steps to ensure they can compete for MLS Cup this season.
“Without tipping what we’re going to do in trades, I do feel that we need to have competition in every spot,” Inter Miami CSO Chris Henderson said in his end-of-year conference.
“We’re evaluating every department in our front office and performance staff, to support [Tata Martino] and his staff and all the players to make sure we’re performing everywhere in the club.”
One trade that would, presumably, make Miami better, confused a significant portion of Inter Miami’s fan base.
Fans react to Inter Miami trade
Miami is looking to rebuild a roster that’s fit enough to challenge for more silverware.
Though the Herons managed to win the Leagues Cup in the summer, the lack of depth and quality throughout the roster was evident.
Sporting Director Henderson stated that the club must get better over the off season if they wanted to compete.
“We’re evaluating every department in our front office and performance staff, to support [Tata Martino] and his staff and all the players to make sure we’re performing everywhere in the club.”
Already, Miami has acquired striker Luis Suarez and is in the middle of negotiations with wing back Julian Gressel.
However, both players won’t share the field with recently departed center half Kamal Miller.
On December 30th, The Athletic’s Tom Bogert reported that the Portland Timbers acquired Canada international Kamal Miller from Inter Miami by trading $625,000 in General Allocation Money, thus opening an international roster spot.
The fans loved Miller, 26, for his hustling and passionate performances on the field. Unfortunately, the ex-CF Montreal man tended to be slow and often looked subpar against speedy opposition attackers.
Some Inter Miami supporters felt perplexed about the trade despite his shortcomings.
“Makes no sense,” a fan said.
Another added: “Miller has been a huge savior for us in the backfield. So it’s worrisome until we hear some strong defensive pickups.”
Conversely, many Miami fans were happy about the swap, stating that Miller’s lack of pace and international roster slot status was an issue.
“My gut has always sided with Miller, but I have seen him lose the ball too many times with boneheaded plays to be upset by this,” one supporter admitted.
“Good move, Miller saved a lot last season but his pace was somewhat worrisome,” another fan agreed.
Ultimately, it’s clear that Inter Miami will bring in another defender to replace Miller. There’s no word as to who the club might acquire, however.