Inter Miami’s roster transformation under new head coach Javier Mascherano has claimed another key Lionel Messi’s teammate. Midfielder Julian Gressel, who was sidelined for much of the 2025 season, has confirmed his exit from the club in a new post.
Gressel addressed his departure on Instagram, posting several pictures of his time in Miami and captioning: “Thank you Inter Miami. It was a privilege to play for this club and win a trophy.” His farewell comes after weeks of uncertainty, as he didn’t train with the team this week and didn’t travel for the semifinal first leg of the Concacaf Champions Cup, in which Miami lost 2-0 to Vancouver Whitecaps.
Without a role in Miami’s future plans, according to ESPN, the club moved to waive Gressel in an effort to free up salary space. Attempts to secure a transfer fell through after no formal offers arrived before the MLS trade window closed on April 23.
The 31-year-old is now a free agent, and all indications point to a move to Minnesota United FC. Gressel recently shared images of himself attending a Minnesota match, and ESPN has reported that a deal is nearly finalized, though no official announcement has been made.
Julian Gressel of Inter Miami ( Vincent Carchietta/Getty Images)
Gressel’s departure follows a series of roster changes at Inter Miami for the new season, with other exits including Leonardo Campana, Diego Gomez, Matias Rojas, and more.
Gressel’s diminished role in Miami this season
Gressel arrived in Miami in January 2024, reuniting with Gerardo “Tata” Martino, his former coach at Atlanta United. During his first year with Inter Miami, he appeared in 40 matches, tallying one goal and 10 assists, and helped the club win a Supporters’ Shield.
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Gressel has been open about his relationship with Messi, stating that Miami’s captain is “demanding” with his teammates. “We’re talking about the most decorated player in the history of the game. He’s won everywhere he’s been—not just for one season, but consistently throughout his entire career,” he said about the Argentine star.
Over his MLS career, Gressel has established himself as a consistent winner. He captured MLS Cup titles with Atlanta United in 2018 and Columbus Crew in 2023, added a U.S. Open Cup with Atlanta, and won two Canadian Championships with the Vancouver Whitecaps. D.C. United remains the only club where he did not lift a trophy.
