Inter Miami have secured the services of veteran Uruguayan striker Luis Suárez for the 2026 Major League Soccer season, the club confirmed on Wednesday. The announcement comes fresh off the back of the team's triumphant MLS Cup victory in 2025.
A Productive Yet Pivotal Season
Suárez, who will celebrate his 39th birthday in January, delivered a remarkable 17 goals and 17 assists across 50 appearances for the Herons in the 2025 campaign. His contributions were a significant part of the team's success throughout the regular season.
However, a tactical shift by head coach Javier Mascherano proved decisive in the playoff run. Following a 2-1 defeat to Nashville SC in Round One, Suárez was moved to the bench, with Mateo Silvetti taking his place in the starting lineup. The change had an immediate and spectacular impact.
Inter Miami subsequently won their next four matches, overpowering opponents with a combined score of 16-2 en route to lifting the MLS Cup, demonstrating the squad's depth and adaptability.
Legacy and Longevity in Florida
Since joining the Florida-based side ahead of the 2024 season, Suárez has compiled an impressive 42 goals and 29 assists in 87 total matches. His tenure has been marked by both high productivity and a public battle with persistent knee issues, which he has previously stated required pain management to allow him to play.
The decision to offer a new contract was warmly anticipated by the club's hierarchy. Co-owner Jorge Mas stated earlier in December that Suárez had earned the right to choose his own path, saying, "Luis deserves to be able to make that decision to be able to leave through the front door and be celebrated like he should be by the club." Mas expressed his personal desire for the striker to remain.
A New Era Dawns in Miami
The re-signing means Suárez and iconic captain Lionel Messi are now the sole remaining members of the celebrated 'Core Four' of former Barcelona stars. Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba both retired following the conclusion of the 2025 playoffs.
The 2026 season will also herald a new chapter for the club off the pitch. Inter Miami are scheduled to open their state-of-the-art Miami Freedom Park stadium on 4 April 2026, with a fixture against Austin FC. Due to the stadium's completion timeline, the team will play its first five matches of the new campaign on the road.
This new deal ensures that Suárez's experience and lethal finishing will be present as the club embarks on its title defence and begins a historic era in its custom-built home.
