Inter Miami CF’s quest for glory in Major League Soccer (MLS) is centered around the team’s legendary quartet, known as the Fantastic Four: Lionel Messi, Sergio Busquets, Jordi Alba, and Luis Suárez. This esteemed group has left an indelible mark on football, both at FC Barcelona and now in Miami.
Inter Miami’s Ambitious Journey
Since their arrival in 2023, the Fantastic Four aimed to solidify their legacy in MLS. Messi’s announcement sparked excitement, eventually leading to the signings of Busquets and Alba, igniting hopes of a new era for Inter Miami. By August 2, their chemistry was evident in a 3-1 victory against Orlando City during the Leagues Cup.
Historic Achievements
The Fantastic Four’s previous successes with Barcelona included:
- Four LaLiga titles
- Four Copas del Rey
- One UEFA Champions League
- One UEFA Super Cup
- One FIFA Club World Cup
Back in Miami, the team enjoyed significant milestones, including winning the 2023 Leagues Cup and the 2024 Supporters’ Shield. They even set a record for the most points in a single MLS season.
Chasing the MLS Cup
Despite these accomplishments, the ultimate goal—winning the MLS Cup—remains unfulfilled. With Busquets and Alba planning to retire after the 2025 season, there’s an urgency to secure the championship. As defender Noah Allen remarked, “We definitely want to win [MLS Cup] for them,” highlighting the collective hope of the team.
2024 Playoff Struggles
The 2024 Eastern Conference playoffs presented challenges for Inter Miami. Initially viewed as favorites, the team faced an unexpected defeat against Atlanta United, marking a premature end to their playoff aspirations. This added pressure on the squad as they evaluated their performance and playoff format critiques.
Record Investment and Performance
In preparation for the 2025 season, Inter Miami made significant financial commitments, leading the league with expenditures nearing $49 million. However, on-field results did not match the substantial investments, as the team fell short in both the Leagues Cup final and the Concacaf Champions Cup semifinals.
A Final Chance for Glory
As the 2025 campaign progresses, the Fantastic Four are focused on their last chance to leave a lasting legacy. Their current playoff series against Nashville SC showcases the team’s determination; after a split in the first two matches, the decisive Game 3 looms larger than ever.
The Legacy of the Fantastic Four
All players recognize the significance of achieving success for their retiring teammates. Young players, like Noah Allen and Yannick Bright, expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to learn from such iconic figures. This mixture of experience and youth has created a bond aimed at capturing that elusive MLS Cup.
Conclusion
As Inter Miami faces their final playoff challenges, all eyes will be on how the Fantastic Four can conclude their time together with the ultimate triumph. The anticipation builds as the legacy of Inter Miami’s ambitious project takes shape, aiming not only for victory but for a celebration of the remarkable careers of their legendary players.
