Discover the 9 Designated Players Inter Miami Has Had Since Its Inception

Since its inception, Inter Miami has made waves in Major League Soccer (MLS) not just for its appeal to Latin American culture but also for the impact of its Designated Players (DPs). The DP rule in MLS allows clubs to sign up to three players who don’t fit under the salary cap, and Inter Miami has taken full advantage of this. With an impressive list of talents, the club has brought in names ranging from South American prospects to European soccer legends.

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9. Matías Pellegrini

Let’s start with Matías Pellegrini, Inter Miami’s first DP, hailing from Estudiantes. In 2020, the young Argentine landed in Florida with the responsibility of being the spearhead of the new franchise. Although his time at the club was brief, Pellegrini symbolized Inter Miami’s ambition to seek promising talents in South America.

8. Rodolfo Pizarro

Next came Rodolfo Pizarro, a well-known name in the Mexican scene. Pizarro, coming from Monterrey, brought with him experience and a touch of brilliance that the team desperately needed. From 2020 to 2023, he was the engine in Inter Miami’s midfield, enchanting fans with his vision and technical skills. During his stint, Pizarro became a central figure, but like every good story, his had its ups and downs.

7. Gonzalo Higuaín

And then, who could forget Gonzalo Higuaín? The former Juventus star arrived with star status in 2020, and immediately became the center of attention. Higuaín brought an aura of greatness to Inter Miami. His goals and presence on the field were synonymous with danger for opponents. From 2020 to 2022, he was the big name in attack, showing that even at the end of his career, he still had a lot to offer. His signing was a masterstroke that elevated the club’s stature and attracted attention from around the world.

6. Blaise Matuidi

The string of stars didn’t stop there. Blaise Matuidi, also ex-Juventus, arrived in 2021, and even though his stint was short, he left his mark. With his World Cup experience, Matuidi brought a winning mentality that impacted the young players around him. His signing showed that Inter Miami was willing to invest heavily to build a competitive and respectable team.

5. Gregore

Another name worth mentioning is Gregore, coming from Bahia. From 2021 to 2023, Gregore was the midfield pillar, known for his defensive sturdiness and ability to lead the team on and off the field. Gregore was a crucial piece in the club’s transition to a more balanced and solid team.

4. Alejandro Pozuelo

In 2022, it was Alejandro Pozuelo’s turn, formerly of Toronto FC, to take on the DP role. Pozuelo, with his refined touch and vision, was a maestro in the midfield. His ability to create plays and dictate the game’s tempo made Inter Miami’s attack one of the most dynamic in the league during his stint. Pozuelo was a true maestro on the field, orchestrating plays that left opponents speechless.

3. Leonardo Campana

Leonardo Campana, a young promise from Wolverhampton Wanderers, arrived in 2023 to bring youth and vigor to Inter Miami’s attack. Campana represents the future, the club’s bet on developing young talents who can grow and shine in MLS.

2. Lionel Messi

And, of course, we can’t forget Lionel Messi. Yes, the man himself, the Argentine genius, came from Paris Saint-Germain in 2023 and caused a true revolution. Messi didn’t just elevate Inter Miami’s status but also that of MLS itself. His presence on the field is like a dream come true for fans. Messi brings with him a legacy of unmatched achievements and skills that will undoubtedly transform soccer in the United States. Seeing Messi play on American soil is something many never imagined, but it’s now a glorious reality.

1. Sergio Busquets

Finally, Sergio Busquets, a Barcelona legend, also landed in Florida in 2023. Busquets, known for his tactical intelligence and passing precision, added a layer of sophistication to Inter Miami’s midfield. His arrival alongside Messi symbolizes a new era for the club, an era of galácticos that seeks not just victories but also a lasting legacy.

Inter Miami has spared no effort to bring in players who not only raise the team’s level but also increase MLS’s visibility on the global stage. Each of these DPs brought something unique, from Matías Pellegrini’s youth and promise to Lionel Messi’s timeless genius. The future looks bright for Inter Miami, and with these stars on the roster, MLS will never be the same. It’s exciting to think about the impact these players will have, not just on the club but on North American soccer as a whole.