Inter Miami’s 2024 is looking exciting.
Not only are the Herons preparing to revamp the roster, but they’re also laying the foundation to challenge for MLS Cup.
“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,” said club Sporting Director Chris Henderson.
Many fans and pundits are already choosing Miami to potentially fight for the top spot in the Eastern Conference this year.
However, the MLS season is long and the Herons could be without several key players during international breaks, including Lionel Messi.
Players to step up for Inter Miami during Copa America
Unfortunately, the Copa America will run from June 20th to July 15th, right in the middle of Miami’s MLS campaign.
Using an educational guess, Messi could miss around 15 matches for the Herons throughout the season, including during the aforementioned tournament.
To avoid a mid to late-season slump, these three attacking players must step up during Messi’s absence.
According to The Miami Herald, the Herons are finalizing a deal to bring striker Luis Suarez to the club. Although the Uruguayan may play in different positions, the attacker can still deliver excellent passes into the final third.
For Gremio this season, the ex-Barcelona man racked up 11 assists during league play in addition to 17 goals.
Though the 36-year-old hasn’t put pen to paper yet, it’s only a matter of time before he puts on pink and helps alleviate the attacking pressure off Messi.
Another player who will need to rise to the occasion during Messi’s absence is forward Leonardo Campana.
The young Ecuadorian has a high upside that will be useful for a Miami roster that has a myriad of aging players.
Campana is adept in the air and has a surprisingly soft touch for a physical center forward. He’s also capable of leading a line well and has shown he can score in MLS.
Lastly, and perhaps the most like-for-like switch for Messi is midfielder Facundo Farias.
The Argentine international is a dynamic player who can play through the middle or on the flanks. For Inter Miami last season, the 21-year-old netted three goals through 11 league games. Though he’s still young, Farias has a bright future.
When Messi is away with Argentina next year, the youngster will likely take the offensive reigns.