Inter Miami are fortunate to have two global icons: for many, Lionel Messi is the greatest player in history, while others consider Luis Suarez one of the finest strikers the game has ever seen. For any soccer fan, the day they retire will be bittersweet, and as time passes, that moment feels closer.
Suarez, in a recent press conference, spoke openly about his retirement plans alongside Messi. “I want to retire with Messi because Leo and I have been talking about retiring together for years, and we might get the chance,” he said.
The Uruguayan forward emphasized that his future with the Herons does not depend on Messi’s decisions, though he admitted the idea of ending his career next to his longtime friend excites him. “We are both getting older, and each of us will make the decision that is right personally,” Suarez added.
It would be remarkable if they do finish their careers together. Their friendship remains one of the strongest bonds the sport has ever witnessed, and fans still have the privilege of watching them shine in what could be their final seasons. There is also a very real possibility that both could appear for their national teams at the next World Cup.
What’s next for Inter Miami, Messi and Suarez?
Inter Miami finished with eight points and secured second place in their MLS Conference during the opening phase of the Leagues Cup. On Wednesday at Chase Stadium, they will host Tigres, who collected six points from three matches. Messi and Suarez are expected to play central roles as the Herons aim to advance.
“Tomorrow’s match could be a turning point mentally. Obviously, it’s like a final,” Suarez said during the pre-match press conference ahead of the quarterfinal clash between MLS and Liga MX sides.
The journey of Messi and Suarez together in soccer
The partnership between Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez is one of the most legendary in soccer history. Their story began at Barcelona in 2014, when they formed a fearsome attacking trio with Neymar, creating the iconic “MSN.” Their chemistry was immediate, on and off the field, allowing them to dominate European soccer and lift multiple trophies, including the Champions League, the Club World Cup, and several La Liga titles.
During their years at the Camp Nou, Messi and Suarez were not only prolific but also one of the deadliest duos in front of goal. Between 2014 and 2020, they combined for nearly 100 assists to each other, with Messi setting up Suarez 52 times and Suarez returning the favor on 47 occasions. Their connection became a nightmare for opposing defenses and elevated both to even greater heights.
After time apart, destiny reunited them in Inter Miami. In 2024, Suarez joined Messi, Jordi Alba, and Sergio Busquets in Florida, reigniting their celebrated connection. Together, they helped the Herons enjoy one of their strongest campaigns, capped by lifting the Supporters’ Shield. This new chapter has proved their friendship and understanding remain as strong as ever, even far from their old home in Barcelona.