Luis Suarez Explains Why He Re-Signed Alongside Lionel Messi At Inter Miami

Suárez Cites Competitive Fire for Inter Miami Extension

Miami striker Luis Suárez signed a one-year contract extension with Inter Miami in December, driven by a burning desire to compete at age 39. The Uruguayan forward, who partners Lionel Messi in attack, spoke to reporters on Wednesday about his decision and a brief loss of his starting spot under former coach Javier Mascherano.

During the 2025 MLS playoffs, Suárez sat out after a first-round suspension against Nashville SC. Mascherano's tactical changes kept him on the bench, prompting Suárez to question his reduced minutes despite solid play. "Of course, when you start getting fewer and fewer minutes on the pitch, you inevitably ask yourself why? What is the reason?" Suárez said. "My job was to keep working hard day in and day out, trying to prove that I deserved a bit more playing time."

Suárez accepted Mascherano's explanation without issue and viewed the episode as a growth moment. He entered the 2026 season as a substitute before regaining his starting role under interim manager Guillermo Hoyos. "There was the suspension, followed by the period of not playing, that whole experience actually led me to become calmer in a certain sense," he said.

Suárez dismissed rumors of tension with new arrival German Berterame and pledged to mentor teammates. "My objective is simply to help anyone who joins the team," he said, praising Berterame's physical qualities and their strong rapport. His extension underscores sustained goal-scoring instinct alongside Messi.