Inter Miami are causing a stir with news of an ambitious transfer move: recruiting Neymar.
David Beckham’s dream of conquering MLS with Inter Miami is at a crucial crossroads. After last season, with relative success in the group stage but bitter failure in the Playoffs, the club is facing a difficult problem: should they continue to strengthen their attack with blockbuster Neymar, or focus on patching up the holes in their defense?
The arrival of Lionel Messi has breathed new life into Inter Miami. Together with former teammates Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets, “El Pulga” helped the team win the prestigious Supporters’ Shield. However, the defeat to Atlanta United – the team that finished 8th overall – right in the Playoffs exposed a fatal weakness: a fragile defense.
In the meantime, rumors about recruiting Neymar have caused a stir in public opinion. Reuniting the MSN trio (Messi – Suarez – Neymar) will certainly be a resounding “explosion” in the media, turning Inter Miami into the most attractive destination in MLS. But is that the optimal solution for the ambition to reach the top?
There’s no denying Neymar’s appeal. The Brazilian’s talent, fame and influence are what any team would crave. However, ESPN football expert Jeff Carlisle is cautious: “Neymar isn’t what they need right now. Miami needs to improve their defense, add quality there.”
Recruiting Neymar will put a significant financial burden on Inter Miami. |
In fact, 49 goals conceded last season is an alarming number. The lack of solid defense is the reason why Inter Miami fell to Atlanta United, despite having a “huge” attack with Messi and Luis Suarez.
Furthermore, the signing of Neymar will impose a significant financial burden on Inter Miami. With MLS’s salary cap, the team must carefully consider adding players, especially in defense.
Carlisle said: “Miami has always operated close to the league’s salary cap and roster rules. In doing so, they often have problems adding strength to their roster, especially when it comes to improving defense.”
Besides Neymar, Luis Suarez’s future is also a big question mark. The Uruguayan striker is 37 years old and is having problems with a knee injury. Will he be healthy enough to continue contributing? If Suarez leaves, recruiting Neymar will be easier financially, but Inter Miami will lose an experienced and classy striker.
David Beckham and the Inter Miami board are faced with a difficult choice. They can “take a risk” with Neymar, create a “dream” attacking lineup and hope that the firepower will make up for the defensive flaws. Or the club can take the safer path, focusing on strengthening the defense, building a solid foundation for their ambition to conquer MLS.
Whatever the final decision, Inter Miami promises to have a vibrant and surprising transfer period. Fans are eagerly waiting to see how the “galaxy” Miami will continue to shine in the future.