Luis Suarez fails to score on Inter Miami debut - Football Leagues

Luis Suarez made his Inter Miami debut alongside Lionel Messi on Friday during a friendly match against El Salvador at the Estadio Cuscatlan but the Uruguayan failed to impress.

After finalising his winter transfer from Gremio to Miami, Suarez debuted with his former Barcelone teammates — Messi, Sergio Busquets, and Jordi Alba. The unconventional pre-season friendly saw Major League Soccer (MLS) side face the nation currently ranked 70th in the official FIFA standings.

San Salvador witnessed a full house as locals flocked to see their national team take on four football legends, anticipated to lead Miami to success in MLS next season.

However, all four were substituted at half-time by manager Gerardo Martino, and Miami managed just two shots on target with their star players on the field, resulting in a 0-0 draw.

The Barcelona reunion is in full swing in Miami, with the franchise owned by David Beckham making every effort to support the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner. Messi committed to Miami after leaving Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) in June 2023, following the expiration of his contract with the French giants.

Alba and Busquets later joined the football maestro after their contracts with Barcelona concluded.

Messi propelled Miami to Leagues Cup success last year, debuting in the first group game of the competition, which features both MLS clubs and Liga MX teams from Mexico. Scoring 10 goals in seven games, Messi played a pivotal role in securing the franchise's first-ever trophy.

Miami faced challenges in MLS before Messi's arrival, and their fate was sealed once the regular season resumed. Former Manchester United and England international Phil Neville lost his managerial position due to their poor form prior to Messi joining.

Messi's arrival elevated Miami's standards instantly, with the addition of Busquets and Alba providing balance and enhancing their overall capability. With the departure of Josef Martinez at the end of the 2023 MLS season, it was evident that the club was acquiring a new striker, leading to the announcement of Suarez's acquisition.

All eyes are on the 2024 MLS season as Miami boasts one of the best squads in division history, featuring World Cup winners and legends of the game. While expectations are high for the season opener, Messi appeared dejected on the bench between Alba and Suarez, who also showed signs of disappointment.