For the past two years, Inter Miami’s strategy for achieving on-field success has been centered around creating the ideal environment for Lionel Messi to thrive. That’s why they’ve brought in several Argentine players and former Barcelona stars to surround the forward and help him shine. Now, the Herons are reportedly after a two-time UEFA Champions League winner who fits that profile.
According to reporter Ekrem Konur, Inter Miami are interested in Marc Bartra. The 34-year-old currently plays for Real Betis in La Liga and could represent a major upgrade to the backline for Javier Mascherano’s team, given his many years competing at the highest level of global soccer.
Bartra began his professional career with Barcelona in 2010 under head coach Pep Guardiola, though his breakout came three seasons later. During his six-year stint with the Catalan side, he made 103 appearances, scored six goals, and won 12 trophies—including two Champions League titles (2011 and 2015).
During those years, the defender shared the pitch with several players who now star for Inter Miami in Major League Soccer. Lionel Messi, of course, is one of them, along with Jordi Alba, Sergio Busquets, and Luis Suarez.
Lionel Messi duels for the ball with Marc Bartra during a La Liga match between Real Betis and Barcelona on February 09, 2020.
After leaving Barcelona, Bartra also played for Borussia Dortmund, Trabzonspor in Turkey, and Real Betis. His time with the Spanish club includes two separate stints, the most recent beginning in 2023. Last season, he appeared in 37 matches and played a key role in helping Betis finish sixth in La Liga and reach the UEFA Conference League final, where they fell to Chelsea.
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Inter Miami need defensive reinforcements
Adding Marc Bartra wouldn’t just bring quality to the roster—he’s a veteran with top-tier European experience spanning the last 15 years. It would also offer a much-needed solution for Mascherano, especially given the defensive struggles the Herons have faced this year.
The head coach has had to make numerous changes in the backline due to inconsistent performances, injuries, and suspensions. Maximiliano Falcon and Tomas Aviles have been Mascherano’s primary center-back options, while versatile players like Gonzalo Lujan, Ian Fray, and Noah Allen have also filled in.
However, several of those players have recently been sidelined due to physical issues, complicating the coach’s plans. In addition, Inter Miami lost Hector David Martinez, who completed his loan from River Plate and has since joined Olimpia in Paraguay.
Another possible signing for Inter Miami
In addition to Bartra, Ekrem Konur also reported that Inter Miami are interested in Facundo Pellistri, the Uruguayan winger currently playing for Panathinaikos in Greece. The 23-year-old had a brief stint with Manchester United and is a key figure in his national team, having played in the FIFA World Cup 2022 in Qatar and the Copa America 2024.
