Inter Miami CF head coach Gerardo Martino emphasized the team's 'clear obligation' to win the MLS Cup, especially with star players like Lionel Messi, Luis Suárez, Jordi Alba, and Sergio Busquets on the roster. Martino, who led Atlanta United FC to the title in 2018, expressed that the current pressure to succeed is unprecedented.
Despite clinching the Leagues Cup trophy in the 2023 season, Inter Miami missed out on the MLS playoffs due to previous results. However, the team has now secured a postseason berth by defeating FC Cincinnati on Aug. 24, with the best record in MLS and leading the Eastern Conference table.
As the playoffs approach, this may be Suárez's only chance to vie for the title with Inter Miami, as his contract expires at the end of the campaign. The team has been on a roll, setting multiple records including most points in a regular season (56 in 26 games), most goals scored (58), and most victories (17).
Martino stressed that success is not solely measured by trophies and results but by seeing a team that executes on the field as they train and prepare. He values the cohesion and performance of his players above all else.
Inter Miami will look to maintain their momentum as they face the Chicago Fire on Aug. 31 at Soldier Field in Chicago, Illinois. While Messi continues to recover from a right ankle injury sustained during the Copa América final, his return to team training signals progress, though a comeback date has not been confirmed.
