Neymar’s MLS Move: A New Chapter in American Soccer? 
Lionel Messi and Inter Miami are set to kick off their 2025 preseason with a highly anticipated match against Club América in Las Vegas. This match marks the beginning of a new chapter under head coach Javier Mascherano, who aims to build on last season’s successes while integrating new talent into the squad.
Key Takeaways
- Inter Miami faces Club América in their first preseason match on January 18, 2025.
- The match will take place at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas at 10 p.m. ET.
- Messi is expected to play, but his minutes may be limited as the team prepares for a busy season.
- Inter Miami has made several new signings, including three Argentine players and a Venezuelan midfielder.
Match Overview
The match against Club América is the first of five preseason games for Inter Miami during their "Americas Preseason Tour." Following this match, the team will travel to Peru, Panama, and Honduras before concluding the tour in Tampa against Orlando City on February 14.
Club América, the reigning LIGA MX champions, will provide a tough challenge for Inter Miami, who are still in the process of finalizing their roster. The match will serve as a crucial test for the team to gauge their readiness for the upcoming MLS season.
New Signings and Coaching Staff
Inter Miami has made significant roster changes ahead of the 2025 season. Notable new signings include:
- Gonzalo Luján: A versatile defender from San Lorenzo, signed through the 2027 MLS season.
- Tadeo Allende: A winger on loan from Celta de Vigo, bringing experience from both Argentina and Spain.
- Rocco Ríos Novo: A goalkeeper acquired on loan from Lanús, expected to compete for the starting position.
- Telasco Segovia: A young Venezuelan midfielder signed from Casa Pia AC, adding depth to the midfield.
Javier Mascherano, a former teammate of Messi, leads the coaching staff, which includes several familiar faces from his time with Argentina’s national teams. The new coaching team aims to instill a winning mentality and tactical discipline in the squad.
Expectations for the Season
After a record-breaking regular season in 2024, where Inter Miami won the Supporters’ Shield, the team faces high expectations. Despite an early playoff exit, the presence of superstars like Messi, Luis Suarez, and Sergio Busquets keeps the pressure on the team to perform.
Mascherano’s appointment as head coach comes with the challenge of maintaining the team’s competitive edge while integrating new players into the system. The upcoming preseason matches will be vital for building chemistry and assessing player fitness ahead of a packed schedule that includes the Concacaf Champions Cup and the Club World Cup.
Conclusion
As Inter Miami prepares to face Club América, fans are eager to see how the team will adapt under new leadership and with fresh talent. The match will not only set the tone for the preseason but also provide insights into the team’s potential for the 2025 MLS season. With Messi leading the charge, expectations are high for another thrilling year of soccer in Miami.
Sources
- Inter Miami vs. Club America: How to watch Messi match Saturday, USA Today.
- Who are the three new Argentine signings for Inter Miami? | Mundo Albiceleste, Mundo Albiceleste.
- Messi, Inter Miami vs. Club America preview, how to watch | Miami Herald, Miami Herald.
- Inter Miami CF Announce Javier Mascherano’s Coaching Staff Ahead of 2025 Season | Inter Miami CF, Inter Miami CF.
- Messi, Inter Miami open training camp under Mascherano | Miami Herald, Miami Herald.
