Inter Miami striker Luis Suárez has claimed that he is training hard to prove that he is ready to start the Lionel Messi-captained side’s upcoming Major League Soccer (MLS) Cup final against Vancouver Whitecaps.
The former Barcelona and Liverpool star started Inter Miami’s Eastern Conference final win over New York City FC last Saturday on the bench. He replaced Mateo Silvetti in the 82nd minute in his side’s latest 5-1 win at Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
Luis Suárez Reveals Wish To Start Inter Miami’s Next Game
Suárez, who is Messi’s close friend on and off the pitch, has failed to start Inter Miami’s last three matches, featuring in just 22 minutes of action. The 38-year-old forward is now hoping to start alongside Messi in the MLS Cup final on Dec. 6.
“I always want to play. Throughout my career, I’ve almost always had the opportunity to play, but, with the maturity I have now, you understand the situation, you understand the reason and the plan that the coach has for a match like the one against FC Cincinnati, and you do it well without any problems,” the former Atletico Madrid ace recently told ESPN.
“It was about conveying to those who were on the field to give their maximum, and then there were seven or eight of us waiting with the same energy as them because we are a group. Obviously, you want to play more than you get to play, but that’s how it is. It’s about training, giving more, and showing the coach that you can play more than 10 or 15 minutes, as I’ve been doing,” the Uruguay legend continued.
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Opining on Inter Miami playing their second final of the year, Suárez said, “One tries above all to convey to those who haven’t played in finals, but this group has already played in a final [Leagues Cup] this year. Things didn’t go as we wanted, but we have to try to face it in the best way possible. We’re playing at home with players who make a difference, and well, we’re arriving in a good rhythm, both in terms of football and mentally.”
How Well Has Suárez Played For Inter Miami?
Just six months after Messi joined Inter Miami, Suárez secured a free transfer to the Herons in January 2024. He has proved to be an excellent signing for his team, helping them lift the MLS Supporters’ Shield last year.
Combining with Messi and other attackers, the Uruguayan striker has found the back of the opposition net 42 times in 87 appearances across competitions for the Herons. He has also laid out 29 assists for his current club.
With his current deal set to expire later this month, Suárez could well play his last game for Inter Miami in the MLS Cup final against Vancouver Whitecaps this Saturday.
