After weeks of speculation, Inter Miami confirmed on November 1st that its exhibition trip to China has been canceled.
The Herons announced the change of plans in a press release, days before the club was to travel abroad: “The tour promoter, NSN, has informed Inter Miami CF of the cancellation of its China Tour due to unforeseen circumstances in China. Inter Miami’s ambition remains to expand its global reach by playing in front of incredible fans from across the globe; the Club will continue to explore future opportunities with NSN to achieve this goal.”
It’s an unfortunate turn of events.
In addition to working on tactics, the trip would’ve been a phenomenal way for the team to bond. Furthermore, for the club’s young core, getting out of the country to experience a different culture would’ve significantly broadened their worldview.
Miami will have to find alternative ways to keep fit over the nearly four-month-long off-season. As 2024 creeps closer, the South Florida team will want to replicate the same success they had when the team clinched the Leagues Cup title in the summer.
Different ways for Inter Miami to stay fit
There is no shortage of options for Inter Miami to choose from.
For one, there could be a possibility that the team plays a closed-door friendly against another Major League Soccer side.
There are a handful of other MLS teams that also didn’t make the playoffs. If they’re looking to stay in shape before the off-season kicks into high gear, then scheduling a behind-the-scenes exhibition match could benefit both teams.
If a closed-door match against a fellow MLS club doesn’t work out, then the Herons could arrange a game against an Argentine or Brazilian side.
This plan could prove to be slightly more difficult, however.
Both Argentine and Brazilian teams are in the middle of their respective seasons. They wouldn’t want to derail with potential injuries if they were to take part in a clash vs. Inter Miami.
In the end, the most logical out of the three choices will be the Herons staying home and training for the rest of the year. It’s not the most exciting option, but it’s the most logical. Head coach Tata Martino will get to work on tactics, and the trio of Lionel Messi, Jordi Alba, and Sergio Busquets will get some much-needed rest.