NASL: How would Miami FC do in MLS?
Translation? The Attack
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While the cup run and league dominance are definitely impressive, it’s hard to tell if their success would translate. The Miami attack has plenty of firepower with Poku, Pinho, and Italian striker Vincenzo Renella spearheading the opposing defense ahead of Ryan, Mares, and Lahoud.
Pinho had a hat-trick against an almost first choice Orlando City backline, then scored again against Atlanta United. The pacey winger was signed by Minnesota United for their final NASL season, but, for whatever reason, his form dipped in 2016 and the Loons ultimately decided to move to MLS with Miguel Ibarra, Josh Gatt, Johan Vanegas, and Kevin Molino instead. Given how Molino has been played more centrally and the Loons have struggled on the wings, (enough so to warrant a few trades along with a new signing), it’s not hard to say MNUFC made a mistake passing on the young Brazilian.
Renella is currently on loan from Real Valladolid in the Spanish Segunda División, where he ended up after standing out for the club while on loan from Real Betis in La Liga. The Italian got his start with FC Lugano of the Swiss Super League, which got the attention of Serie A side Genoa. He would never play for Genoa, however, but would stand out on loans to Grasshopper in Switzerland and AC Cesena in Serie B, before playing the next few years in the top two Spanish divisions.
He leads the NASL in both goals scored and assists, and at 28-years-old is in the prime of his career and would easily be able to do what he does now against MLS competition week after week. Especially while playing alongside Poku.
Poku needs no introduction. His perfect blend of skill, speed, and power created a cult-like following for himself with NYCFC in their debut season. He found himself in a logjam of attacking midfielders but was quickly breaking through before Miami bought up his services. He leads the NASL in chances created, tied with teammate Dylan Mares. With Mares, Michael Lahoud, and Richie Ryan behind him, Poku has been able to mercilessly attack defenses with success, which has led him to a call-up with Ghana.