PFSN Ranks Top 5 Players at Inter Miami Ahead of 2026 MLS Season

Eastern Conference powerhouse eyes glory with star-studded roster

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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Inter Miami, the reigning MLS Cup champions, have bolstered their squad in the offseason as they aim to defend their title and conquer the CONCACAF Champions League. PFSN spotlights five key players expected to lead the charge for the Eastern Conference side in the 2026 MLS season.

Why it matters

Inter Miami's success in recent years has made them a force to be reckoned with in MLS, and their offseason moves have further strengthened an already talented roster. The spotlight on these five players highlights the depth and quality that the club possesses as they look to cement their status as one of the league's elite teams.

The details

Inter Miami has signed several high-profile players in the offseason, including Micael on loan from Palmeiras to shore up the defense, and David Ayala from the Portland Timbers to fill the void left by Sergio Busquets' retirement. Rodrigo De Paul, who joined the club in 2025, is expected to take on a larger role in midfield, while Germán Berterame has been brought in as the long-term replacement for Luis Suárez. Of course, the team's talisman, Lionel Messi, remains the centerpiece of the squad and is poised to lead the charge once again.

  • Inter Miami won the MLS Cup last season.
  • Micael has joined the club on loan from Palmeiras for the 2026 season.
  • David Ayala was acquired from the Portland Timbers for $2 million.
  • Rodrigo De Paul's move to Inter Miami was made permanent this year.
  • Germán Berterame joined the club from Monterrey for $15 million.

The players

Micael

A center back on loan from Palmeiras, expected to be a key figure in the Inter Miami backline alongside Maximiliano Falcón.

David Ayala

A 23-year-old defensive midfielder acquired from the Portland Timbers for $2 million, set to play a pivotal role as the link between defense and attack.

Rodrigo De Paul

The Argentine midfielder, who joined Inter Miami in 2025, will assume a larger role in the team's midfield following Sergio Busquets' retirement.

Germán Berterame

The $15 million signing from Monterrey is expected to lead Inter Miami's attack this season, replacing the departing Luis Suárez.

Lionel Messi

The two-time MLS MVP returns to lead Inter Miami, having guided the club to silverware in each of the last three campaigns.

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What they’re saying

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

Messi's participation in the upcoming FIFA World Cup remains uncertain, and his form around the summer break will be closely monitored as he aims to remain fit for the tournament.

The takeaway

Inter Miami's offseason moves have further strengthened an already formidable roster, with the additions of Micael, David Ayala, Rodrigo De Paul, and Germán Berterame complementing the continued brilliance of Lionel Messi. The club's quest for glory on multiple fronts, including the MLS Cup and CONCACAF Champions League, is set to be a captivating storyline in the 2026 season.