De Paul Ready to Make Explosive MLS Debut as Inter Miami Clash with Orlando City

Inter Miami continues their 2025 Leagues Cup campaign, but they return to MLS regular-season play on Sunday with a trip to face state rivals Orlando City SC.

The task ahead won't be straightforward for the Herons, despite their strong recent performances. Orlando currently holds sixth place in the Eastern Conference with 41 points, trailing Miami by just one point as they sit fifth with 42, and both clubs are juggling Leagues Cup elimination rounds alongside MLS obligations.

Furthermore, manager Javier Mascherano must devise a strategy without Lionel Messi, who resumed practice on Saturday but remains unavailable following his injury suffered against Necaxa.

Here's how Mascherano could deploy the Herons without Messi in this crucial rivalry encounter.

Inter Miami Predicted Lineup vs. Orlando City (4-2-3-1)

GK: Rocco Rios Novo—The emerging goalkeeper has established himself as Miami's primary choice due to injuries affecting Drake Callender and Oscar Ustari.

RB: Marcelo Weigandt—The 25-year-old fullback has featured in 14 MLS matches for Miami this campaign and has proven to be among their most dependable performers.

CB: Maxi Falcon—Though encountering some disciplinary challenges during Leagues Cup Phase One, Falcon continues to be an essential component of Miami's defensive structure.

CB: Gonzalo Lujan—Throughout Inter Miami's transformative summer, Lujan has emerged as a crucial defensive starter for the Herons.

LB: Jordi Alba—Among several marquee acquisitions in MLS, Alba stands as one of the rare defenders with such distinguished credentials competing in the league.

CDM: Sergio Busquets—The 2010 World Cup champion is among 18 players who have claimed the trophy and competed in MLS, with Thomas Müller being the latest addition to this group.

CDM: Federico Redondo—Though potentially seeing reduced minutes due to De Paul's arrival, Messi's absence provides Redondo an opportunity to return to midfield alongside Busquets.

RW: Tadeo Allende—Responsible for orchestrating wide play, Allende's partnership with Suárez and De Paul will be crucial for Miami's success without Messi.

AM: Rodrigo De Paul—Following his maiden goal for the Herons, De Paul prepares for his debut MLS regular season appearance on Sunday.

LW: Telasco Segovia—Having netted 10 goals across all competitions this season, Segovia aims to maintain his scoring form in the derby and upcoming Leagues Cup matches.

ST: Luis Suárez—Despite experiencing reduced output this season, Suárez demonstrated his enduring class in the recent encounter against Pumas.