Luis Suarez outlines Inter Miami plans after reuniting with Lionel Messi in MLS

22 February 2024 , 11:44

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Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez combined expertly during Inter Miami's win in their MLS season opener (Image: Simon Bruty)

Inter Miami star Luis Suarez has detailed his wish to add more silverware to his collection after reuniting with old partner in crime Lionel Messi stateside.

The famous strike duo picked up from where they left off at Barcelona as they inspired the Herons to a 2-0 win over Real Salt Lake in the MLS season opener. Although neither star got on the scoresheet on the night, they both grabbed an assist in a hard-fought victory.

Firstly, it was Messi who turned provider as he slipped in Robert Taylor, who finished past a Zac MacMath to get Vice City off the mark for the campaign in the 39th minute. After that, Miami had to labour for their three points, with Messi's talismanic efforts central to their fortunes.

Eventually, however, the fans inside Chase Stadium could breathe a sight of relief after their opponents had worked tirelessly for an equalizer in the second half. This time, Messi and Suarez would combine with a quick one-two, before the Uruguayan found youngster Diego Gomez to seal the win as the game headed into injury time.

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Suarez has since reflected on a positive first competitive outing with the Herons, as the Floridan franchise put their nightmarish pre-season behind them in style. The veteran forward was delighted to have got his debut under his belt in front of a home crowd as he set his sights on success this term.

"I am so happy, the first game won at home is really important, he said, as he opened up on the experience of playing alongside some familiar faces. "We are friends on the pitch and outside and we try our best to help the team and enjoy the life. We want to help Inter Miami to win this year."

This first victory of his Miami career will have the club's hierarchy hoping that he can prove a difference-maker in 2024, as the team looks to build on the promise of the second half of last term. With the additions of Messi, Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba, the club won its first piece of silverware in the Leagues Cup in a landmark moment.

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Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez have reunited at Inter Miami and are off to a winning start

Having lured Suarez from Brazilian giants Gremio, there is no doubt that the former Liverpool striker is now hoping to close out his glittering career in style. At 37-years-old, however, he is all too aware that his body is not as sprightly as it once was during his heyday in Europe.

At points during the clash with Real Salt Lake, the marksman was seen limping as he continues to play through the pain barrier due following surgery on his knee back in 2020. Speaking candidly about his long-term future in the game, he admitted to Del Sol FM: "Inter Miami is the last club of my career. I can't be more honest.

"The family already knows it. I don't know the date yet, but it's the last step. I am also ready for my last challenge. I must think about having quality of life afterwards. I talk about this and I feel like crying because that's who I am, but you have to prepare yourself. I remember that a former player told me that the player is never prepared for retirement."

Tom Beattie