Why is Luis Suarez not playing for Inter Miami against Minnesota United in the MLS?

Inter Miami are set to face Minnesota United in Week 12 of the 2025 MLS season, with both sides looking to climb the standings in what promises to be a competitive matchup. But as the squad list was released, fans quickly noticed the absence of Luis Suarez from the lineup.

In a stretch of the season where every point counts, Inter Miami will be without one of their main stars against Minnesota. Speaking to reporters on Friday, head coach Javier Mascherano confirmed that Luis Suarez will miss the match because he had to leave Miami due to personal reasons.

“Luis had to travel due to personal reasons. The rest, except for David Ruiz and Drake Callender, are available to train,” Mascherano said when asked about Suárez’s availability. The Argentine coach also explained how his absence impacts the team.

“He’s a player with an incredible track record. I’ve always valued Luis for his defensive work—what he contributes when we don’t have the ball, how he organizes the first line of pressure. When we analyze a player, we analyze them as a whole. We can’t overlook the defensive side.”

Messi to fill Suarez’s role up front

Following Leonardo Campana’s departure in the winter transfer window, Inter Miami have limited options at the striker position. With Suarez unavailable, those concerns are once again in focus.

One alternative is 18-year-old forward Allen Obando, who has scored once in four appearances with the team. However, Mascherano discussed the flexibility within his squad and potential replacements: “If there’s one thing we’ve shown, it’s creativity. We have options— (Tadeo) Allende can play as a striker. Leo (referring to Messi) is another possibility; he’s played in that position when Luis has come off.”

Lionel Messi is starting at center forward, completing the attacking trio alongside Telasco Segovia and Benjamin Cremaschi. While Messi typically operates as a playmaker, Mascherano is confident in the legendary No. 10’s ability to adapt and lead the line with his elite goal-scoring instincts in the MLS.