Neymar’s MLS Move: A New Chapter in American Soccer? 
As the 2025 Major League Soccer season approaches, Inter Miami CF has officially opened its preseason training camp at the Florida Blue Training Center. Under the guidance of new head coach Javier Mascherano, the team is gearing up for a promising season, aiming to build on last year’s successes and address the challenges that led to an early playoff exit.
Key Takeaways
- Inter Miami CF begins preseason training under new head coach Javier Mascherano.
- The team is focused on instilling a new playing style and identity.
- Players express excitement about the upcoming season and their goals.
New Beginnings With Mascherano
Javier Mascherano, a former teammate of Lionel Messi, has taken the helm at Inter Miami following the resignation of Gerardo "Tata" Martino. Mascherano’s coaching philosophy emphasizes intensity and courage, mirroring the aggressive style he exhibited as a player. He expressed optimism about the team’s fitness and readiness, stating, "The feelings are very positive. We are happy, especially with how they’ve returned from the break."
The training camp kicked off with medical evaluations, followed by intense training sessions aimed at preparing the squad for the upcoming preseason matches. Mascherano is keen on establishing a clear identity for the team, which he believes will be crucial for their success in the competitive MLS landscape.
Player Insights and Goals
The squad features a mix of returning stars and new signings, all eager to contribute to the team’s ambitions. Notable players like Fafa Picault, who recently joined the team, shared his enthusiasm about reuniting with familiar faces and integrating into the squad.
- Fafa Picault: "It’s been great getting to know the guys and starting to gel as soon as possible."
- Yannick Bright: "Personally, I want to play as good if not better than last year. Collectively, we want to win more trophies than last year."
Defender Tomás Avilés and midfielder David Ruiz also expressed their excitement about working under Mascherano, highlighting his passion for the game and his ability to connect with younger players.
Upcoming Matches and Expectations
Inter Miami’s preseason will include a series of matches across North, South, and Central America, starting with a game against Club América in Las Vegas. The team is set to play five matches during this tour, which will serve as a critical opportunity to test their strategies and build chemistry on the field.
Preseason Schedule:
- Jan. 18 – vs. Club América, Las Vegas, NV
- Jan. 29 – vs. Universitario, Lima, Peru
- Feb. 2 – vs. Sporting San Miguelito, Panama City, Panama
- Feb. 8 – vs. Club Deportivo Olimpia, San Pedro Sula, Honduras
- Feb. 14 – vs. Orlando City SC, Tampa, FL
As the team prepares for these matches, the focus remains on physical and tactical readiness, ensuring that all players are in optimal condition for the official competitions ahead. With a blend of experienced players and fresh talent, Inter Miami aims to reclaim its status as a top contender in the league.
Conclusion
With the new season on the horizon, Inter Miami CF is poised for an exciting journey under Javier Mascherano’s leadership. The combination of seasoned stars and new talent, along with a clear vision for the team’s identity, sets the stage for a thrilling 2025 season.
Sources
- Back At It: Inter Miami CF Opens 2025 Training Camp | Inter Miami CF, Inter Miami CF.
- Mascherano still getting settled with Inter Miami, as it preps for start of season | AP News, AP News.
- Inside Inter Miami: Messi, Mascherano training camp update | Miami Herald, Miami Herald.
- Messi, Inter Miami open training camp under Mascherano | Miami Herald, Miami Herald.
