Inter Miami Star, Not Lionel Messi, Labeled ‘Important’ for Title Victory by Former Club Player

Lionel Messi is the leading goalscorer in the MLS, scoring nine strikes. La Pulga has the most assists in the division (seven). Hence, there is a strong claim that the Argentine playmaker is the numero uno in the MLS. However, Kieran Gibbs believes Inter Miami’s title hopes rest in the hands of another star. And it is not the superstars in the side like Luis Suarez and Sergio Busquets.

Kieran Gibbs, who lined up for the Herons between 2021-23, spoke on Leonardo Campano’s importance to the side. Gibbs said, “He’s a really strong character. really professional, he takes care of himself, and he’s always got one kind of state. He doesn’t get too down, he remains neutral, and he’s going to be important for Miami going for the title.” With Gibbs having played with Campana, he knows the Ecuadorian’s qualities well. 

Moreover, Gibbs also noted how Campana remained “patient” in the trying times. With 9 and 11 goals in the last two campaigns, Campana was the main striker for Herons previously. However, the arrival of Lionel Messi’s close friend, Luis Suarez, changed the scenario for Campana. This season, he has found minutes hard to come by. Campana is preferred mainly as a substitute option or in games to rest Suarez. Hence, is it possible for the Ecuadorian to regain his spot from Suarez? However, Coach Martino has a different solution to the problem.

Campana could play alongside Lionel Messi and Suarez per Martino

Tata Martino doesn’t find the Suarez-Campana situation a dilemma but rather a blessing. Speaking of the same, he said, “We have two strikers of a very high quality. It’s possible that the team has a chance of having both players on at the same time.” Campana has a contract until 2025, and at 23, the striker is the future of Inter Miami. With him already having great chemistry with Lionel Messi, Martino would desperately want to keep the Ecuadorian at the club.

In last year’s US Open Cup game versus FC Cincinnati, Lionel Messi assisted Campana’s brace. Campana’s pace and tenacity perfectly complement Messi’s vision. Adding Luis Suarez to the mix could offer a devastating trio. Furthermore, Campana is also capable of playing on the wings. Hence, Inter Miami could continue to use Suarez as the #9 with Messi and Campana on the flanks. On paper, this seems the perfect solution to keep the trio happy and at their best level. The potential of this combination is truly exciting. But will Martino opt for this tactic? Let’s wait and see.