Rumors are swirling about another high-profile move for Inter Miami, with reports linking the Florida side to Brazilian superstar Neymar.
After a dominant regular season, where Lionel Messi’s team claimed the Supporters’ Shield, finishing eight points ahead of Columbus Crew for the league’s best record, Inter Miami fell short in the playoffs. They were unexpectedly knocked out in the first round by Atlanta United, a team that finished 34 points behind them.
Now, the focus has shifted to how David Beckham’s franchise plans to bounce back. The latest speculation suggests a potential reunion for Neymar with his former Barcelona teammates Messi, Jordi Alba, Sergio Busquets, and Luis Suárez in Miami.
Is Neymar the Right Fit for Inter Miami?
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While signing Neymar would undoubtedly capture global attention, not everyone believes he is what Miami needs most.
“I don’t think Neymar is what they need right now. I think they need to shore up the back line and add quality there,” ESPN analyst Jeff Carlisle said on the Futbol Americas podcast.
Miami’s defense has been a glaring weakness, conceding 49 goals last season — far from the top-tier backlines in the league. While Neymar’s addition would enhance their already potent attack, it wouldn’t solve their defensive shortcomings.
Additionally, MLS salary cap and roster restrictions make it challenging to sign a marquee player like Neymar while addressing defensive needs. “Miami always seems to push the limits of the salary cap and roster rules,” Carlisle explained. “This often leaves them dealing from a position of weakness.”
The Suárez Factor
There’s also uncertainty surrounding Luis Suárez, who joined Inter Miami on a one-year deal. While he has expressed interest in staying, concerns over the 37-year-old’s chronic knee issues could influence the team’s plans. Should Suárez depart, a move for Neymar might make more sense, but it remains unclear which direction Miami will take.
As Beckham and Inter Miami navigate these decisions, one thing is certain: all eyes will be on their next big move.