The other former Barcelona player who could join Messi, Suárez, Busquets and Alba at Inter Miami

Inter Miami has its sights set on 2025, a year packed with commitments in Major League Soccer (MLS), the CONCACAF Champions Cup, the Leagues Cup, and the FIFA Club World Cup. With Gerardo “Tata” Martino stepping down, the arrival of Javier Mascherano as head coach has brought a wave of decisions regarding the team’s future.

Lionel Messi, the team’s star, remains the centerpiece of Inter Miami’s project. The club is even exploring a contract renewal to keep the Argentine legend through the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Other veterans like Sergio Busquets, Jordi Alba, and Luis Suárez will also continue, with the latter extending his contract for another year. Promising young talents such as Federico Redondo, Benjamín Cremaschi, and Facundo Farías are confirmed to stay as well.

However, several players will leave the club, including Nicolás Freire, Serhiy Kryvtsov, and Franco Negri, signaling a need for reinforcements, particularly in defense.

Defensive Reinforcement: Marc Bartra Tops the List

Strengthening the backline is Inter Miami's top priority after a challenging 2024 season in which defensive issues were a recurring problem. According to reports from Olé and Infobae, the club is targeting Marc Bartra, a veteran defender currently with Real Betis. Bartra’s extensive experience in European football and previous connection with Messi, Busquets, Alba, and Suárez during his Barcelona days make him a logical candidate.

Bartra has a proven track record of teamwork with Messi, having played 74 matches together at Barça, contributing to seven goals (two scored by Bartra from Messi’s assists and five goals assisted by Bartra to Messi). While his contract with Real Betis runs until June 2025, and he remains a starter under Manuel Pellegrini, his future could depend on personal decisions and Inter Miami’s offer.

Goalkeeping Situation: New Names in Sight

Another critical area for the club is the goalkeeper position. With CJ Dos Santos recently departing, Drake Callender is the only option currently available. Negotiations are ongoing with Óscar Ustari to extend his contract, but the club is also exploring external options.

One potential target is Nahuel Losada, the current goalkeeper for Lanús. Although no formal offer has been made yet, media outlets suggest that the 31-year-old is on Inter Miami’s radar as a reliable addition to their roster.

Building for a Demanding 2025

Inter Miami's ambitious plans require a balanced mix of seasoned veterans and rising talents. While players like Messi, Suárez, and Busquets bring unparalleled experience, reinforcements in defense and goalkeeping are essential to competing on multiple fronts.

• New Leadership: Javier Mascherano takes over as head coach for the 2025 season.
• Core Players Staying: Lionel Messi, Sergio Busquets, Jordi Alba, and Luis Suárez remain with the club.
• Defensive Target: Marc Bartra is the main candidate to bolster the backline.
• Goalkeeping Needs: Drake Callender is the only current option, with Óscar Ustari in talks for renewal and Nahuel Losada under consideration.
• Departures: Nicolás Freire, Serhiy Kryvtsov, and Franco Negri will not continue with the team.