<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/inter-miami/">Inter Miami</a> is no stranger to ambition, especially when it comes to assembling a roster filled with global soccer icons. After their playoff disappointment in the MLS, the club is preparing to make another splash in the upcoming winter transfer window. Rumors swirl about a potential high-profile signing, one that would not only bolster the team’s domestic aspirations but also set the stage for a competitive run in the&nbsp;2025 Club World Cup. The identity of the player? A former&nbsp;<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/real-madrid/">Real Madrid</a>&nbsp;star whose name still commands attention on the world stage.



The Herons have already made headlines by bringing in the likes of&nbsp;<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/lionel-messi/">Lionel Messi</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/luis-suarez/">Luis Suarez</a>, and&nbsp;Sergio Busquets, forming one of the most star-studded lineups in MLS history. The club’s next target, as reported by&nbsp;Estadio Deportivo, is none other than&nbsp;<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/james-rodriguez/">James Rodriguez</a>, the 33-year-old Colombian playmaker. His potential arrival would further cement Inter Miami’s status as a destination for top-tier talent.



“Inter Miami has already begun exploring the possibility of signing Rodriguez,”&nbsp;the report notes,&nbsp;“with the aim of strengthening their squad for both the MLS and the upcoming Club World Cup”. For a team that prides itself on global appeal, James’ addition could elevate their profile even further, attracting fans and sponsors alike.



Once heralded as one of the most exciting talents in world soccer, James Rodriguez’s career has taken a more subdued turn in recent years. His stint at&nbsp;<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/rayo-vallecano/">Rayo Vallecano</a>&nbsp;has been anything but remarkable. Since joining the La Liga club in August, the Colombian has made just six appearances, logging a mere 136 minutes, with only one start to his name.



Despite his limited impact in his second <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/la-liga/">La Liga</a> stint, Rodriguez remains a key figure on the international stage. His performances for the Colombian national team, particularly in the recent&nbsp;Copa America, have demonstrated that his technical brilliance and vision remain intact. However, his lack of form and playing time in Spain have led to <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/james-lack-of-playing-time-fuels-january-la-liga-exit-talk-where-could-he-go-next/">growing speculation about his future</a>.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="675" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20241129_WST_541916_Inter-Miami-to-add-ex-Real-Madrid-star-to-Lionel-Messi-and-Luis-Suarezs-squad-1-1200x675_8fd98578.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=675" alt="james rodriguez" class="wp-image-541920" srcset="https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/11/Inter-Miami-to-add-ex-Real-Madrid-star-to-Lionel-Messi-and-Luis-Suarezs-squad-1-1200x675.jpg 1200w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/11/Inter-Miami-to-add-ex-Real-Madrid-star-to-Lionel-Messi-and-Luis-Suarezs-squad-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/11/Inter-Miami-to-add-ex-Real-Madrid-star-to-Lionel-Messi-and-Luis-Suarezs-squad-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/11/Inter-Miami-to-add-ex-Real-Madrid-star-to-Lionel-Messi-and-Luis-Suarezs-squad-1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/11/Inter-Miami-to-add-ex-Real-Madrid-star-to-Lionel-Messi-and-Luis-Suarezs-squad-1-740x416.jpg 740w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/11/Inter-Miami-to-add-ex-Real-Madrid-star-to-Lionel-Messi-and-Luis-Suarezs-squad-1-490x275.jpg 490w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/11/Inter-Miami-to-add-ex-Real-Madrid-star-to-Lionel-Messi-and-Luis-Suarezs-squad-1-250x140.jpg 250w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/11/Inter-Miami-to-add-ex-Real-Madrid-star-to-Lionel-Messi-and-Luis-Suarezs-squad-1.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></figure>



<h2>What could James bring to Inter Miami?</h2>



Should Rodriguez make the move to Inter Miami, the potential partnership with Messi is tantalizing. Both players are past their peak, but they still possess the quality to dominate matches. Messi’s unparalleled playmaking ability combined with Rodriguez’s creativity and precision passing could create a lethal attacking force in the MLS.



Inter Miami’s newly appointed head coach,&nbsp;<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/javier-mascherano">Javier Mascherano</a>, would undoubtedly relish the opportunity to work with a player of Rodriguez’s pedigree.&nbsp;The report adds that the veteran’s experience in European soccer could be invaluable for the club, Mascherano is rumored to believe.



<h2>Second departure from La Liga seems inevitable</h2>



Despite the swirling transfer rumors, Rayo Vallecano has publicly downplayed any immediate plans to part ways with Rodriguez.&nbsp;David Cobeño, Rayo’s sporting director, stated:&nbsp;“For now, I haven’t considered any specific changes for any player. James remains a key figure for us, contributing quality not just on the field but also in the locker room”.&nbsp;Yet, given Rodriguez’s limited involvement and the club’s tactical decisions, it appears likely that his departure is only a matter of time.



Even in matches where his presence could have made a difference, such as the recent clash against&nbsp;Sevilla, Rodriguez remained on the bench, marking the third game this season in which he did not play a single minute.

Inter Miami to add ex-Real Madrid star to Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez's squad?

Inter Miami to add ex-Real Madrid star to Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez's squad? - World Soccer Talk

destacadas

Could one of soccer’s most iconic attacking trios be on the verge of a sensational reunion? <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/neymar/">Neymar</a>, currently plying his trade in the <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/saudi-pro-league/">Saudi Pro League</a>, has dropped a tantalizing hint about reuniting with <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/lionel-messi/">Lionel Messi</a> and <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/luis-suarez/">Luis Suarez</a>. While their partnership once terrorized defenses at Barcelona, the possibility of the trio teaming up again has sparked fervent speculation among fans and pundits alike.



Neymar’s recent comments during a promotional event have reignited hopes of the famous ‘MSN’ trio reforming. The partnership of Messi, Suarez, and Neymar was one of the most formidable attacking forces in soccer history. Together, the trio delivered breathtaking performances for <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/barcelona/">Barcelona</a> between 2014 and 2017, amassing an astonishing&nbsp;364 goals and 173 assists&nbsp;in their time together.



Their chemistry peaked during the 2014-15 season when they secured a historic treble, including the La Liga, Copa del Rey, and Champions League titles. But time brought changes. The Brazilian departed for Paris Saint-Germain in 2017, seeking a new challenge and leaving behind a partnership that defined an era. Briefly reunited in Paris with Messi in 2021, Neymar’s European journey has since led him to <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/al-hilal/">Al-Hilal</a> in Saudi Arabia. Meanwhile, the Argentine superstar has found a new home in MLS, with Suarez joining him in the same league.



During a promotional event for&nbsp;eFootball, the 32-year-old forward joined Messi and Suarez virtually as they played with their digital Blaugrana avatars, reliving moments of their shared triumphs. At one point, he remarked,&nbsp;“I wish I were there too,”&nbsp;fueling speculation about his interest in joining his former teammates.



<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Back where we belong 🏟️ It’s time for the return of that famous MSN magic ⚽️🌟 Find their new Epic cards in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/eFootball?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#eFootball</a> and relive football history 🎮📱<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MSN?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MSN</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Messi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Messi</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Neymar?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Neymar</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Suarez?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Suarez</a> <a href="https://t.co/fnTu378PXc">pic.twitter.com/fnTu378PXc</a>— eFootball (@play_eFootball) <a href="https://twitter.com/play_eFootball/status/1859528457224368217?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 21, 2024</a></blockquote></div>



This cryptic comment has fueled rumors that Neymar could join them in the US, specifically at&nbsp;<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/inter-miami/">Inter Miami</a>, Messi’s current club. Suarez, who joined Messi in Florida, has also become a central figure in the speculation about a potential MSN revival in MLS.



<h2>Inter Miami: Dream destination?</h2>



It was only later in the eventful conversation that the location of Neymar’s desired reunion became clear: MLS side Inter Miami.&nbsp;Messi’s move to Miami in 2023 transformed the club into a global sensation,&nbsp;and Suarez’s subsequent arrival strengthened their attacking line. Neymar’s potential addition to the roster would undoubtedly make headlines worldwide.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="675" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20241123_WST_541015_‘I-wish-I-were-there-too-Neymar-teases-potential-move-as-Lionel-Messi-reunion-grows-closer-2-1200x675_61d7bb9b.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=675" alt="" class="wp-image-541018" srcset="https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/11/‘I-wish-I-were-there-too-Neymar-teases-potential-move-as-Lionel-Messi-reunion-grows-closer-2-1200x675.jpg 1200w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/11/‘I-wish-I-were-there-too-Neymar-teases-potential-move-as-Lionel-Messi-reunion-grows-closer-2-300x169.jpg 300w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/11/‘I-wish-I-were-there-too-Neymar-teases-potential-move-as-Lionel-Messi-reunion-grows-closer-2-768x432.jpg 768w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/11/‘I-wish-I-were-there-too-Neymar-teases-potential-move-as-Lionel-Messi-reunion-grows-closer-2-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/11/‘I-wish-I-were-there-too-Neymar-teases-potential-move-as-Lionel-Messi-reunion-grows-closer-2-740x416.jpg 740w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/11/‘I-wish-I-were-there-too-Neymar-teases-potential-move-as-Lionel-Messi-reunion-grows-closer-2-490x275.jpg 490w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/11/‘I-wish-I-were-there-too-Neymar-teases-potential-move-as-Lionel-Messi-reunion-grows-closer-2-250x140.jpg 250w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/11/‘I-wish-I-were-there-too-Neymar-teases-potential-move-as-Lionel-Messi-reunion-grows-closer-2.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></figure>



However, challenges remain. For Neymar to join, the Herons would need to navigate MLS’ strict salary cap rules, requiring adjustments to their roster and finances. While logistical hurdles exist, the timing could align well for a future move, as Neymar’s current contract with Al-Hilal reportedly includes an option for early termination.



<h2>What did Neymar previously say about possibly reuniting with Messi?</h2>



Neymar has never been shy about sharing his thoughts on potential moves. In interviews with outlets like&nbsp;ESPN Argentina&nbsp;and&nbsp;Globo’s Esporte Espetacular, he expressed a desire to play in the United States at some point, saying,&nbsp;“I’d love to play there at least for a season.”



Reflecting on his time with Messi in Paris, Neymar also once noted the highs and lows:&nbsp;“He went to heaven with the Argentina team… and with Paris, he lived hell, as did I.”

‘I wish I were there too’: Neymar teases potential move as Lionel Messi reunion grows closer

‘I wish I were there too’: Neymar teases potential move as Lionel Messi reunion grows closer - World Soccer Talk

Inter Miami’s 2024 season was one of record-breaking highs and sudden disappointments. Despite the stellar performance in the regular season under manager&nbsp;<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/tata-martino/">Gerardo ‘Tata’ Martino</a>, with&nbsp;<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/inter-miami/">Inter Miami</a> clinching the Supporters’ Shield&nbsp;and setting a league points record, the team was ousted in the first round of the MLS playoffs by Martino’s former club, Atlanta United. The early elimination has fueled speculation about the future of the Argentine coach, with reports hinting at a potential replacement: a former Barcelona teammate of&nbsp;<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/lionel-messi/">Lionel Messi</a> and <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/luis-suarez/">Luis Suarez</a>.



Inter Miami’s ambitious roster, featuring the South American duo, alongside the likes of&nbsp;Sergio Busquets, and Jordi Alba, and young stars like&nbsp;Federico Redondo and Diego Gomez, was touted as the most talented in <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/mls/">MLS</a>. However, the squad, crafted with the star power of Barcelona legends and new talents, still faltered at the season’s most crucial moment. Many fans and analysts wonder if it might be time for a fresh approach to coaching—a change that could include a familiar face from Messi’s past.



During the regular season, the Argentine showed his coaching prowess by leading Inter Miami to an&nbsp;MLS-record 74 points. The team’s offensive might was unmatched, with&nbsp;79 goals scored across 34 matches, largely thanks to Messi, Suarez, and Alba’s skill in the attacking third. He masterfully balanced the squad’s seasoned stars with younger players, ensuring an effective balance between experience and vigor on the field.



Martino’s success, however, was marred by defensive weaknesses. He often favored a&nbsp;4-3-3 formation, yet would shift to a&nbsp;3-4-3 setup&nbsp;in more challenging away games. Although this flexible approach allowed for tactical experimentation, it revealed weaknesses in Miami’s defense. Injuries among center-backs exacerbated this problem, and while the club’s offense often outscored their opponents, defensive errors ultimately proved costly in the postseason.



The early playoff exit stung, as it was a major letdown for both the team and fans who had anticipated a deep run given the team’s star-studded lineup. Martino himself acknowledged the disappointment, calling the season “a failure” and admitting his tactics fell short of the expectations surrounding Miami’s star-studded lineup.



<h2>Possible replacement: Former teammate and Barca legend</h2>



According to&nbsp;El Crack Deportivo,&nbsp;<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/xavi/">Xavi Hernandez</a>—Barcelona legend, former teammate of Messi, and one of soccer’s greatest midfielders—could potentially take over at Inter Miami. Xavi, who left Barcelona after a challenging managerial tenure, is now available and could bring his European coaching experience to the MLS. His arrival in Miami would be in keeping with the club’s recent penchant for&nbsp;Barcelona-linked figures, joining Messi and Busquets on the roster and Raul Sanllehi in the backroom staff.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="675" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20241113_WST_539537_Lionel-Messi-and-Luis-Suarezs-ex-Barcelona-teammate-to-replace-Tata-Martino-as-Inter-Miamis-coach-2-1200x675_9f09aace.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=675" alt="" class="wp-image-539542" srcset="https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/11/Lionel-Messi-and-Luis-Suarezs-ex-Barcelona-teammate-to-replace-Tata-Martino-as-Inter-Miamis-coach-2-1200x675.jpg 1200w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/11/Lionel-Messi-and-Luis-Suarezs-ex-Barcelona-teammate-to-replace-Tata-Martino-as-Inter-Miamis-coach-2-300x169.jpg 300w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/11/Lionel-Messi-and-Luis-Suarezs-ex-Barcelona-teammate-to-replace-Tata-Martino-as-Inter-Miamis-coach-2-768x432.jpg 768w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/11/Lionel-Messi-and-Luis-Suarezs-ex-Barcelona-teammate-to-replace-Tata-Martino-as-Inter-Miamis-coach-2-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/11/Lionel-Messi-and-Luis-Suarezs-ex-Barcelona-teammate-to-replace-Tata-Martino-as-Inter-Miamis-coach-2-740x416.jpg 740w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/11/Lionel-Messi-and-Luis-Suarezs-ex-Barcelona-teammate-to-replace-Tata-Martino-as-Inter-Miamis-coach-2-490x275.jpg 490w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/11/Lionel-Messi-and-Luis-Suarezs-ex-Barcelona-teammate-to-replace-Tata-Martino-as-Inter-Miamis-coach-2-250x140.jpg 250w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/11/Lionel-Messi-and-Luis-Suarezs-ex-Barcelona-teammate-to-replace-Tata-Martino-as-Inter-Miamis-coach-2.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></figure>



The 44-year-old’s coaching resume at Barcelona, while not without struggles, is marked by his strategic mindset and deep understanding of the game. His familiarity with players like Messi and Busquets could enhance Miami’s chemistry, reinforcing a cohesive and tactical approach that builds on their existing dynamics. However, the idea of swapping Martino—an MLS Cup champion and accomplished coach—for the Spaniard, who faced challenges at Barcelona, raises questions about whether the potential swap would be wise.



<h2>Could Tata Martino end up staying?</h2>



Despite the rumors of a managerial change, many argue that Martino should be given a chance to build on his achievements. Martino’s&nbsp;tactical flexibility, man-management skills, and his regular-season achievements&nbsp;suggest that he may be uniquely suited to Miami’s setup. Even with Messi and others sidelined by injuries, Martino’s guidance kept Miami competitive, suggesting his abilities as a resilient and adaptive coach.



If Martino can improve the defensive structure, Inter Miami could emerge as a formidable contender in 2025. Dismissing him after just one season could disrupt the stability he’s established. Additionally,&nbsp;MLS’s structure of parity&nbsp;makes maintaining success particularly challenging, and Martino’s extensive experience within the league gives him an advantage in navigating its unique demands.

Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez's ex-Barcelona teammate to replace Tata Martino as Inter Miami’s coach?

Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez's ex-Barcelona teammate to replace Tata Martino as Inter Miami’s coach? - World Soccer Talk

Diego Costa, a striker who had previously played for Chelsea and Atletico Madrid, will continue his career in Brazil with Gremio. Following Botafogo’s decision to let the 35-year-old’s contract end after four months, he found himself without a club. Costa had a <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/2022/09/12/diego-costa-returns-to-the-premier-league-with-wolves/">brief stint with Wolves</a> before. However, his effect in England was much less than it had been during his peak years with Chelsea.



Before departing last summer, he spent eight months at Molineux, making 25 appearances and scoring just once. The veteran is most known for his <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/remembering-when-jose-mourinho-and-diego-costa-were-la-ligas-problems-20151005-CMS-153730.html">three years at Chelsea</a>. During his time at Stamford Bridge, he scored 59 goals and won the Premier League twice.



However, Costa has since signed with Gremio, moving on to a new club. As of Thursday night, <a href="https://gremio.net/noticias/detalhes/27303/gremio-fecha-acordo-com-diego-costa" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">the team announced</a>: “He is Spanish, but has Brazilian blood and titles wherever he has been!



“Diego Costa arrives to strengthen Imortal’s attack. Multi-time champion in Europe, he has already worn yellow and red and will now defend the Tricolor mantle. Welcome!’



<h2>How did Costa fare in his career?</h2>



After beginning his professional career with Braga in February 2006, Costa has already played for 12 different clubs. Before joining <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/atletico-madrid-tv-schedule/">Atletico Madrid</a> in December 2006, he went on loan to Penafiel. Costa stayed at Braga until the season ended, albeit he only made seven appearances and scored zero goals.



Atletico president Enrique Cerezo gave Costa the nickname “new Kaka” upon his unveiling. He debuted for the team in August 2007, however he was loaned out to Celta Vigo the same month. While on loan there, the Brazil-born Spaniard became a mainstay and had a productive season.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="670" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20240209_WST_488779_Diego-Costa-Botafogo-1200x670_57d93bd7.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=670" alt="" class="wp-image-488846" srcset="https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/02/Diego-Costa-Botafogo-1200x670.jpg 1200w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/02/Diego-Costa-Botafogo-300x168.jpg 300w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/02/Diego-Costa-Botafogo-768x429.jpg 768w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/02/Diego-Costa-Botafogo.jpg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></figure>



Before the 2010-11 season, the striker had two more loan stints, one with Albacete and the other with Real Valladolid. That is when the Spaniards finally allowed him to prove himself with the first squad.



Although he started the season as a substitute for Sergio Aguero and Diego Forlan, Costa eventually earned a spot in the starting lineup. Unfortunately, he had to miss six months of football action in 2011 after injuring his knee badly in the summer.



To get back to his old level of sharpness, he went on loan to Vallecano in January of the following year. There, he had a productive loan, reaching 16 games and scoring 10 goals. That shape allowed him to make a triumphant comeback to Madrid and solidify his position as a key member of the team.



As the Colchoneros won the Copa del Rey in 2012-13, the star scored a total of 20 goals in all competitions. While Diego Simeone’s team won La Liga but lost the Champions League final, he improved upon his total by netting 36 times in 52 appearances.



<h2>Is Diego Costa a perfect Suarez replacement at Gremio?</h2>



During the 2013-14 season, Costa was at times unplayable, which led to a massive transfer to <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/chelsea-tv-schedule/">Chelsea</a>. While playing with the Blues, the Spaniard was an integral part of the team that won the <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/watch-premier-league-on-us-tv-internet/">Premier League</a> back-to-back in 2013 and 2014. He scored 59 goals in 120 games for the club.



But when he returned under Diego Simeone in January 2018, he didn’t have the same success or impact as before. He left the club for Atletico Mineiro of Brazil after scoring only 19 goals in 81 appearances throughout four years.



The 35-year-old will step up and fill the shoes of <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/suarez-reveals-key-barcelona-regret-and-it-involves-messi-too-20240114-WST-483411.html">Luis Suarez</a>. The Uruguayan international has teamed up with his ex-Barcelona teammates, Messi, Busquets, and Alba in Miami.



PHOTOS: IMAGO

Gremio replace Suarez with ex-Premier League winner

Diego Costa, a striker who had previously played for Chelsea and Atletico Madrid, will continue his career in Brazil with Gremio.

Gremio replace Suarez with ex-Premier League winner - World Soccer Talk

With the signing of Luis Suarez, Inter Miami will have a new look for the next season. On the other hand, David Beckham and <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/the-year-in-review-the-top-soccer-stories-in-2023-20231219-WST-475178.html">Lionel Messi</a> have not finished yet; they want to lure other signings to Florida.



The newest acquisition by Inter Miami brings the number of former Barcelona teammates that Lionel Messi will reunite with at DRV PNK Stadium in the next season to three. <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/suarez-joins-inter-miami-in-reunion-with-former-barca-stars-20231223-WST-479478.html">Luis Suarez</a> has joined Messi, Sergio Busquets, and Jordi Alba, all of whom were star players for Barcelona.



The Uruguayan signed a one-year contract with the <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/where-to-watch-mls-on-us-tv-and-internet/">Major League Soccer</a> club. The club has the option to extend the agreement for a second year.



Messi and Suarez have not played together again for Inter Miami for almost four years. Within that time frame, the latter has represented three different clubs in three different nations.



The Argentine departed Barcelona for PSG in the summer of 2020, but the veteran had already gone a year before. He became an integral part of Diego Simeone’s Atletico Madrid and flourished there.



Joining Tata Martino’s squad, Suarez will hopefully help them score more goals. But both Messi and Beckham are said to be aware that they need further help. Thus, they are reportedly specifically seeking help in the defensive department.



<h2>Messi and Tata Martino call Marcos Rojo</h2>



Now, a fellow Argentine has been extended an invitation to join Lionel Messi at <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/inter-miami-tv-schedule/">Inter Miami</a>. Even though he wasn’t a member of Barcelona, Lionel Messi is keeping a sharp eye out for potential acquisitions for his side.



Since signing with Inter Miami in the US last year, Messi has been an integral element of the club’s transfer recruiting effort. The World Cup champion has enlisted the help of former teammates like Luis Suarez, Jordi Alba, and Sergio Busquets since his arrival.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="675" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20231228_WST_480127_Rojo-Messi-1200x675_f65d78b6.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=675" alt="" class="wp-image-480162" srcset="https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2023/12/Rojo-Messi-1200x675.jpg 1200w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2023/12/Rojo-Messi-300x169.jpg 300w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2023/12/Rojo-Messi-768x432.jpg 768w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2023/12/Rojo-Messi.jpg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></figure>



Another possible addition for Inter Miami is Marcos Rojo, a former Manchester United center defender and a longstanding teammate of Lionel Messi’s from Argentina.



Tata Martino and Messi have both called Rojo to see whether he would join Inter Miami. This is according to what Argentine radio host Hernan Castillo said on <a href="https://en.as.com/soccer/lionel-messi-used-to-convince-argentina-teammate-marcos-rojo-to-sign-for-inter-miami-n/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Continental 590</a>.



Even if he is now a member of the Argentine powerhouse Boca Juniors, Rojo may want to make one more major transfer in his career. Especially at the age of 33. Rojo is drawing interest from both the MLS team and Brazilian outfit Pameiras, according to Castillo. 



<h2>How can Marcos Rojo help Inter Miami?</h2>



He is no longer up for consideration with the Argentina national team. Still, the Boca Juniors defender has played 61 times for his nation, often partnering with Lionel Messi. He represented his country in two World Cups, the first of which was a major selling point for United when they signed him in 2014.



After seeing more action as a left defender, Rojo is now more often used in the middle of defense. After allowing 54 goals in 34 league matches last season, Miami is looking to add some seasoned backup there.



However, Rojo’s reputation for becoming angry has grown during his time at United. A year ago, he kicked Nicolas De La Cruz in the head. According to reports, he once tossed a fire extinguisher into a tunnel in the stadium.



PHOTOS: IMAGO.

Messi effect: Star invites ex-Argentina teammate to Inter Miami

David Beckham and Lionel Messi have not finished adding new players at Inter Miami yet, as they want to lure Marcos Rojo to MLS.

ALL POSTS TAGGED "Suarez"

News

Inter Miami to add ex-Real Madrid star to Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez's squad?

News

‘I wish I were there too’: Neymar teases potential move as Lionel Messi reunion grows closer

News

Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez's ex-Barcelona teammate to replace Tata Martino as Inter Miami’s coach?

Brasileiro League

Gremio replace Suarez with ex-Premier League winner

Boca Juniors

Messi effect: Star invites ex-Argentina teammate to Inter Miami