Naijahood
Inter Miami, led by Lionel Messi, is set for an extensive pre-season, covering almost 25,000 miles with seven friendlies across five countries. Coach Gerardo Martino expresses confidence in managing the demanding schedule despite concerns about potential fatigue and injuries.
The team, boosted by the arrivals of Messi, Sergio Busquets, Jordi Alba, and Luis Suarez, sees these friendlies as crucial revenue generators. However, Martino acknowledges the delicate balance between the business and sporting aspects, emphasizing the need to regulate players’ participation.
Last season’s experience serves as a cautionary tale, as Miami initially excelled in winning the mid-season Leagues Cup but faced setbacks with injuries to Messi and Alba, ultimately missing out on a playoff push. The pressure to showcase Messi is evident, but Martino aims to find the right balance this time around.
Busquets echoes the need for equilibrium between commercial and football activities, emphasizing that facing top-notch teams in the friendlies will prepare them for a high-level competition. He recognizes the importance of physical readiness for time changes and long trips, essential for a successful season.
The pre-season kicks off on January 19 with a match against the El Salvador national team, followed by games against FC Dallas in Texas, Al Hilal, and Al Nassr in Saudi Arabia. The team then faces an All-Star team in Hong Kong on February 4 before concluding the tour with a friendly against J-League club Vissel Kobe in Tokyo. The pre-season concludes on February 15 with the only home game against Messi’s boyhood club, Newell’s Old Boys.
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