Luis Suarez Benched for Inter Miami's Match Against DC United

Veteran striker left out of starting lineup despite team's recent victory

Published on Mar. 7, 2026

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Inter Miami will take on D.C. United in a crucial MLS matchup, but legendary forward Luis Suarez has been left out of the starting XI. Head coach Javier Mascherano has opted to start marquee offseason signing German Berterame alongside Lionel Messi up front, with Suarez beginning the game on the bench. The Uruguayan international is returning from a lower-leg injury that kept him out of the team's previous win over Orlando City.

Why it matters

Suarez's absence from the starting lineup is a notable decision by Mascherano, as the veteran striker is a key part of Inter Miami's attack. His omission could signal a shift in the team's tactics or a desire to manage his minutes coming off an injury. The match against D.C. United is an important one for Inter Miami as they look to build on their recent victory and solidify their position in the MLS standings.

The details

Inter Miami will be fielding a strong lineup for the match against D.C. United, with Suarez's fellow Uruguayan Rodrigo De Paul and Lionel Messi both starting. The only major injury concern for the team is Spanish defender Sergio Reguilon, who has been limited to just one appearance this season due to a knee sprain.

  • Inter Miami defeated Orlando City 4-2 in their previous match.
  • Luis Suarez is returning to the matchday squad after missing the Orlando City game due to a lower-leg injury.

The players

Luis Suarez

A veteran Uruguayan striker who is a key part of Inter Miami's attack.

Javier Mascherano

The head coach of Inter Miami who has made the decision to leave Suarez out of the starting lineup for the match against D.C. United.

German Berterame

Inter Miami's marquee offseason signing who will start up front alongside Lionel Messi in Suarez's absence.

Lionel Messi

The legendary Argentinian forward who will lead Inter Miami's attack against D.C. United.

Sergio Reguilon

The Spanish defender who is Inter Miami's only major injury concern, having been limited to just one appearance this season due to a knee sprain.

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What’s next

With Suarez's return to the matchday squad, the focus will be on whether he is able to make an impact off the bench and help Inter Miami secure a positive result against D.C. United.

The takeaway

Mascherano's decision to leave Suarez out of the starting lineup is a tactical move that could signal a shift in Inter Miami's approach, as they look to build on their recent victory and continue their push up the MLS standings.