Author: Barkha Roy
Inter Miami CF have made significant moves to strengthen their team, with the aim of creating their version of “Barça West” by signing former Barcelona players. The latest addition is defender Jordi Alba, who joins Lionel Messi and Sergio Busquets at the club.
Jordi Alba, an experienced 34-year-old left-back, spent an impressive 11 seasons at Barcelona, contributing to six La Liga titles and a Champions League win in 2015. With 37 goals and 107 assists in 605 appearances in all competitions, Alba has proved to be a talented and dynamic player, capable of contributing to both defensive and attacking solidity.
Inter Miami’s sporting director, Chris Henderson, was enthusiastic about the acquisition of Alba, saying that his experience and ability would help strengthen the team. The trio made up of Alba, Messi and Busquets will also be reunited with their former Barcelona coach, Gerardo “Tata” Martino, who recently took over as coach of Inter Miami.
The team’s current performance in the MLS isn’t up to scratch, with a record of 5-14-3 (18 points) and 12 points below the qualifying line for the playoffs. However, with the addition of these talented players, there is hope for a turnaround in the remaining 12 games of the regular season.
Alba’s move to Inter Miami was preceded by his illustrious international career with Spain, with 93 caps and contributing to Spain’s victories in Euro 2012 and the 2023 UEFA Nations League.
Both Messi and Busquets have already made their debuts for Inter Miami and were greeted enthusiastically by the fans during their presentation at the DRV PNK Stadium. Messi, in particular, is expected to make his debut in the League Cup opener against Cruz Azul on Friday.
As well as Alba, there are also reports linking Inter Miami to another former Barcelona player, Luis Suarez, a 36-year-old striker who currently plays for Brazilian club Gremio. Suarez played alongside Messi, Busquets and Alba during his six seasons at Barcelona. Although club president Jorge Mas has acknowledged the possibility of signing Suarez, there have been no direct talks with Gremio or the player.
The signing of Jordi Alba further solidifies Inter Miami’s ambition to create a formidable team with a mix of experienced players and emerging talents. As the club prepares for its League Cup adventure and the next home game against Cruz Azul, fans are eagerly awaiting the trio’s performance and the possible signing of Luis Suárez to further strengthen the team. With these exciting developments, Inter Miami hope to turn their MLS season around and achieve their goals on the pitch.