Inter Miami CF head coach Gerardo 'Tata' Martino expressed frustration with Major League Soccer roster rules following the team's elimination in the Concacaf Champions Cup quarterfinal series against CF Monterrey. Martino cited the need for deeper rosters to compete at the same level as Liga MX, emphasizing the advantage the Mexican league holds due to the current MLS roster regulations.
Martino highlighted the impact of injuries and suspensions on team performance, stating that the comparison between MLS and Liga MX is currently unfavorable for MLS teams. Despite efforts to level the playing field, Martino believes that significant changes to roster rules are necessary for MLS to close the gap with Liga MX.
In the quarterfinal matches, Inter Miami CF fell 2-1 in the first leg and 3-1 in the second leg to CF Monterrey. Despite the return of star player Lionel Messi, Monterrey's dominance was evident throughout the series, with key goals from their players securing the victory.
Martino explained the limited substitutions made by Miami, attributing it to the inexperience of the bench players. The coach expressed the need for a more developed roster to handle adverse situations effectively.
Inter Miami player Julian Gressel echoed Martino's sentiments, emphasizing the team's frustrations with the lack of depth compared to their opponents. Gressel called for MLS to implement changes that would allow for a deeper roster, enabling teams to compete more effectively in international competitions.
Following the team's elimination, reports confirmed that the MLS board of governors approved changes to the league's roster rules. The modifications aim to provide teams with greater flexibility in roster construction, including easing restrictions on designated players and under-22 initiative signings.
Other approved changes include an increase in contract buyouts allowed per season and a boost in general allocation money (GAM) for teams when players are transferred out of the league. These adjustments are expected to come into effect with the opening of the summer transfer window on July 18.
