Inter Miami has started its off-season roster business early.
On October 25th, the club released its list of end-of-season roster decisions. The list includes player contract options that were exercised, those that were declined, and the players in negotiations to return next year.
The biggest headline from the release is the departure of forward Josef Martinez and the potential homecoming of defender Leandro Gonzalez Pirez, who’s on loan at River Plate.
Martinez’s exit from the team was confirmed by manager Tata Martino after Miami’s season finale loss against Charlotte FC. The 30-year-old will end his Miami career after scoring 12 goals in 40 appearances for the men in pink. Many believe the club could replace the Venezuelan with current Gremio striker Luis Suarez.
On the flip side, Gonzalez-Pirez is an intriguing name on the list. The Argentine last played for Miami from 2020 to 2021 before being sent out on loan in early January 2022.
Gonzalez-Pirez is a name Martino knows well. The duo won multiple trophies together during their time with Atlanta United, including an MLS Cup in 2018.
Should Inter Miami bring the 31-year-old back to the club, he’ll join a center-back core of Kamal Miller, Tomas Aviles, Serhiy Kryvtsov, Ryan Sailor, and Christopher McVey.
Inter Miami’s road to 2024 starts now
In addition to Martinez, midfielder Victor Ulloa and winger Jake LaCava won’t be returning to the team next year either. Furthermore, defensive midfielder Dixon Arroyo is also in talks with the team to stay.
In the press release, Inter Miami Sporting Director Chris Henderson had this to say about the roster moves: “We’re proud of building a team that was able to win the first title in Inter Miami history this year, and will continue to look to build on that to find further success moving forward. Now we will look ahead to 2024. We hope to come back even stronger next season, and be ready to compete for more.”
The Herons almost made it to the playoffs this year. But, as they pivot to 2024, they’re hopeful for continued success next season.