Luis Suárez Re-Signs With Inter Miami, Set to Play 2026 Season Alongside Messi

Uruguayan striker Luis Suárez has committed to another season with Inter Miami CF, extending his partnership with long-time friend and teammate Lionel Messi into 2026. The club announced the contract renewal on December 17, 2025, ensuring the 38-year-old—turning 39 in January—will feature in the team's inaugural campaign at their new stadium near Miami International Airport. Financial details remain undisclosed, but the move secures continuity for one of Major League Soccer's most potent attacking duos. Suárez, a former Barcelona, Liverpool, Atlético Madrid, and Ajax star, joined Miami ahead of the 2024 season and quickly became instrumental in the franchise's rise. His presence alongside Messi has drawn global attention, boosting attendance and commercial appeal for the reigning MLS champions.

Suárez delivered strong performances in 2025, registering 17 goals and 17 assists across 50 appearances in all competitions. Though his role diminished in the final four MLS Cup playoff matches, with no minutes in the 3-1 final victory over the Vancouver Whitecaps, his overall contribution remained vital. The previous year, upon arrival, he led Miami with 25 goals across competitions, including 20 in regular-season play—tied with Messi for second-most in the league. That output helped secure the club's first Supporters' Shield for the best regular-season record. The extension marks Suárez's third season with Inter Miami, solidifying a core built around Barcelona reunion elements.

The decision comes amid roster transitions for Inter Miami following their championship success. Veterans Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets, also ex-Barcelona teammates of Messi and Suárez, announced retirements at season's end. The club has begun reshaping the squad, recently extending defender Ian Fray through the 2028-29 season. Suárez's retention provides stability in attack as Miami prepares for increased expectations in the expanded Club World Cup and domestic competitions. The new stadium opening adds symbolic weight, offering fans a state-of-the-art venue to watch the iconic pairing.

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Messi, named back-to-back MLS MVP, continues as the centrepiece, with Suárez's experience complementing the Argentine's creativity. Their chemistry, forged over years at Barcelona, has translated seamlessly to MLS, producing highlights and silverware. Suárez's decision to postpone retirement reflects confidence in the project's trajectory under coach Gerardo Martino.

This renewal reinforces Inter Miami's ambition to dominate domestically while competing globally. Suárez's goal-scoring prowess and leadership remain assets despite advancing age and managed minutes late in playoffs. The front office prioritises retaining proven winners amid departures of key veterans.

As 2026 approaches, anticipation builds for Messi and Suárez headlining the stadium debut and pursuing further trophies. Their partnership has elevated MLS visibility worldwide, drawing record crowds and broadcast interest. Inter Miami positions itself as a destination for elite talent, with this extension signalling sustained contention. Fans eagerly await the duo's continued exploits in the club's evolving era.

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