Inter Miami is looking to finish the first stretch of the Major League Soccer season on a high note, following a string of mixed performances and a defense that has shown cracks after a solid start. Still, the team's resilience in coming back to earn a point against one of the league's top sides, Philadelphia Union, was a major takeaway. "What stays with me is the character, the desire to turn things around, and the pride the team showed. I think that's the path forward," said head coach Javier Mascherano before training.
Up next are two home fixtures at Chase Stadium: CF Montréal on May 28 and Columbus Crew on May 31 -- both crucial to regaining form, especially given the team's stronger showings on home turf during this inconsistent start.
Lionel Messi was fully engaged during the latest training sessions, taking a clear leadership role on the field and actively contributing in last weekend's comeback against Philadelphia, where he scored a trademark free-kick.
During tactical talks, he exchanged a few words with Mascherano and Suárez, and was seen joking with teammate Maxi Falcón after a rondo mistake -- highlighting his light-hearted yet focused demeanor.
As expected, Mascherano confirmed that midfielder Yannick Bright will miss the upcoming match after leaving early against Philadelphia. "We lose a lot of our physical presence without him," said the coach. "He's key for our defensive structure. We hope the injury is minor and he can return soon."
Baltasar Rodríguez, who debuted recently against San Jose and provided an assist before being subbed off, is still under medical observation. "He's improving but not fully ready. If he continues progressing, we might arrange a friendly to get him back to game rhythm."
David Ruiz continues his individual rehab sessions and is unlikely to feature before the upcoming international break.
While there are still some question marks, a similar lineup to the one that faced Philadelphia is expected. Bright is unavailable, and Marcelo Weigandt appears to have the edge over Ian Fray at right-back. The central defense pairing of Maxi Falcón and Noah Allen will likely return, while Telasco Segovia is set to start again after his late equalizer last match.
Projected XI: Óscar Ustari; Marcelo Weigandt, Maxi Falcón, Noah Allen, Jordi Alba; Telasco Segovia, Sergio Busquets, Federico Redondo, Tadeo Allende; Lionel Messi, Luis Suárez.