Luis Suarez has joined the Barcelona reunion at Inter Miami, aligning himself with former teammates Lionel Messi, Jordi Alba, and Sergio Busquets at the Florida-based club.
Suarez shared his motivations for joining the Herons, citing the desire to reconnect with his Barcelona colleagues as a significant factor.
Additionally, he disclosed that the idea of moving to the United States had crossed his mind as early as 2019, influenced by his close friend Nicolas Lodeiro’s involvement with the Seattle Sounders.
Furthermore, Suarez explained that the upcoming Copa America tournament in the United States played a role in his decision. Being part of Inter Miami would allow him to acclimatise to the conditions, providing preparation for his final international tournament representing Uruguay.
“To come help a team that has well-known players that everyone knows and [adjust] to the other players and what is a new club and do what the club wants, which is to attempt to win an MLS Cup and do it with professionalism, is what is wanted of me; this is so important for me,” Suarez said. “[Messi] talked to me about the good things about Inter Miami and about MLS. It was so nice for me when he told me that.”
Suarez further explained the role of Copa America in his decision, telling AS: “Anyone who has been in the national team always wants to stay in the national team. I’ve always said that. I had a chance to step aside after the World Cup, but when I was in Brazil, I felt good physically and that I could help the team from anywhere.
“You have to accept the role you have to play and coming here to the United States and knowing the Copa América is being played this year is another plus. It helps to acclimatise, knowing it will be hot, and that’s good; it’s important to get to know the country. After that, my performances on the field will help the coach decide if I can make a contribution. That will always be based on performances, not on reputation.”
The Uruguayan and Messi spent six seasons together at Barcelona, winning four Spanish league titles and nine other trophies, including a Champions League title, in that span. Suarez is coming off a year where he was the best player and the best striker in the Brazilian Serie A with Gremio.
However, now that he is turning 37 this year and suffering from knee issues, the load on the striker will have to be managed by the club if they want to get the best out of him.
Suarez has already started training with the Herons and is likely to feature in the season-opening friendly for Inter Miami against El Salvador on January 19 in San Salvador.