In preparation for the upcoming 2024 MLS season, Inter Miami is leaving no stone unturned. The team, led by soccer legend Lionel Messi, is gearing up for an exciting year, marked by a series of tours and friendly matches to assess the squad’s progress.
The roster has witnessed significant additions, with the likes of Luis Suarez, Jordi Alba, and Sergio Busquets already on board. The potential inclusion of Philippe Coutinho adds an extra layer of anticipation to an already star-studded lineup.
Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez, and Potential Arrival Coutinho to Elevate Inter Miami’s MLS Campaign
Coutinho, who made a high-profile move from Liverpool to Barcelona in January 2018, finds himself at a crossroads in his career. Currently on loan at Al Duhail in Qatar until the end of the season, the Brazilian midfielder is not part of Unai Emery’s future plans. With Aston Villa seeking a new destination for Coutinho, Inter Miami emerges as a compelling prospect for the talented attacking midfielder.
As Inter Miami looks to consolidate its position in the MLS, the addition of Coutinho could prove to be the final touch needed to create a formidable force on the field. The stage is set for an exhilarating season ahead, with Messi, Suarez, and potentially Coutinho forming a dynamic trio that promises to make waves in the 2024 MLS campaign.
Aston Villa Initiates Talks with U.S. Clubs for Loan or Sale of Brazilian Star
Recent reports from MLS Multiplex, a dedicated source for Major League Soccer news, suggest that Philippe Coutinho could be on the verge of landing in the MLS. Aston Villa, currently holding the rights to the Brazilian midfielder, has reportedly commenced discussions with several U.S. clubs, primarily aiming for a new loan arrangement.
Sources indicate that while a loan deal is being explored, Aston Villa is also open to the prospect of a permanent sale. However, the English club is steadfast in its valuation, seeking an offer akin to the substantial 20 million euros they paid for Coutinho two years ago.
Former MLS Cup Winner Joins Coach Tata Martino’s Plan for MLS Dominance
Inter Miami, under the strategic guidance of Coach Tata Martino, is fortifying its squad for the upcoming MLS season, and the latest addition to their midfield is U.S. international Julian Gressel. The coach, familiar with Gressel from their time together at Atlanta United, sees the midfielder as a valuable reinforcement for achieving competitiveness in the league.
Gressel’s soccer journey began in Germany before he made the move to the United States in 2011. Playing college soccer for the Providence Friars, he honed his skills for four seasons. In 2017, Gressel entered Major League Soccer, getting drafted in the first round with the eighth overall pick by expansion side Atlanta United in the MLS SuperDraft.
The midfielder quickly made an impact, earning the title of MLS Rookie of the Year in 2017 and contributing significantly to Atlanta United’s triumph in the MLS Cup in 2018. Gressel also played a role in securing victories in the U.S. Open Cup and Campeones Cup in 2018 and 2019, respectively.
Gressel’s journey continued with D.C. United, where he showcased his talent and finished the 2021 season with the third-highest assists in the league. His subsequent moves took him to the Vancouver Whitecaps and later the Columbus Crew.
Where is Coutinho playing now?
Philippe Coutinho Correia currently operates as an attacking midfielder or winger for Al-Duhail, a club in the Qatar Stars League. This stint is part of his loan agreement from the Premier League club Aston Villa.
Now, Inter Miami has secured Gressel’s services as a free agent on a three-year deal with an option for a further year. The midfielder’s wealth of experience and success in the MLS makes him a key addition to Inter Miami’s quest for supremacy in the upcoming season. As fans eagerly await Gressel’s debut in the iconic pink and black jersey, the expectations for Inter Miami’s midfield prowess have soared to new heights.