Messi Spearheads Inter Miami's Battle Against CF Montreal in Crucial MLS Showdown
Following their groundbreaking achievement in the FIFA Club World Cup as the inaugural Concacaf club to defeat a UEFA side in official competition with their victory against FC Porto, Inter Miami CF prepares to return to MLS competition this weekend facing CF Montréal.
Having raised their performance standards to compete alongside teams like Al-Ahly, FC Porto and Palmeiras, before their defeat to Paris Saint-Germain, Miami approaches this match with renewed vigor and determination to salvage a 2025 campaign that hasn't unfolded as anticipated.
Under head coach Javier Mascherano's guidance, the squad currently sits fifth in the MLS Eastern Conference based on points-per-game average, a significant decline from their record-breaking 74-point regular season performance that set an MLS all-time high last year.
The club now hopes that the second complete season of the Lionel Messi era will deliver additional success and position them to capture their inaugural MLS Cup title. To achieve these objectives, they must begin accumulating more league victories, starting with their encounter against Montreal.
Here's the anticipated formation for Saturday's match.
Inter Miami Predicted Lineup vs. CF Montréal (4-4-2)
GK: Oscar Ustari—Despite a disappointing performance against PSG, Ustari has demonstrated exceptional form throughout MLS and Club World Cup competitions.
RB: Marcelo Weigandt—As one of Miami's most reliable defensive assets, Weigandt aims to continue his impressive Club World Cup displays, particularly with Noah Allen potentially sidelined for this fixture.
CB: Maxi Falcon—The Uruguayan defender has experienced some concerning moments in MLS play, but delivered solid performances against European opposition and seeks to replicate that quality versus CF Montréal.
CB: David Martinez—The Paraguayan defender faced departure rumors from Inter Miami this week, yet remains with the team and is anticipated to feature in the starting eleven against Montréal.
LB: Jordi Alba—The Spanish legend has regained his fitness after missing the Club World Cup opener due to injury concerns.
RM: Tadeo Allende—Emerging as one of Miami's standout performers this season, Allende returns to MLS competition where he has netted six goals across 13 matches.
CM: Federico Redondo—An essential component of Miami's midfield structure, Redondo has established himself as a regular starter in the central midfield alongside Sergio Busquets.
CM: Sergio Busquets—While the experienced midfielder has recorded just three assists in MLS this season, he demonstrated his composure and command during the Club World Cup.
LM: Benjamin Cremaschi—Though primarily a central midfielder, Cremaschi may be deployed in his alternative wide role against the Canadian opponents.
ST: Luis Suárez—Despite approaching the twilight of his career, Suárez showcased his abilities at the Club World Cup and aims to enhance his scoring record in MLS competition.
ST: Lionel Messi—The Argentine icon has been subject to transfer rumors, but appears ready to start while potentially negotiating a contract extension with the Herons.