As Inter Miami’s managing owner Jorge Mas stood on the pitch at Lower.com Field, he couldn’t contain his smile. His team had just secured the coveted Supporters’ Shield, thanks to a thrilling victory against the Columbus Crew. While Lionel Messi’s brace and Luis Suárez’s goal undoubtedly played a crucial role, it was goalkeeper Drake Callender’s penalty save in the 84th minute that truly sealed the deal. This moment encapsulated the essence of Inter Miami’s historic season – a collective effort that extended far beyond the individual brilliance of their star players.
The Barcelona Connection
Messi’s former Barcelona teammates were instrumental in maintaining Inter Miami’s record-breaking form, even during the Argentine’s absences. Luis Suárez, in particular, proved his worth as an elite striker, tying for the lead in non-penalty goals and finishing second in non-penalty goal contributions. Remarkably, 45% of his 20 regular-season goals came when Messi wasn’t on the pitch, showcasing his ability to shoulder the attacking burden.
In midfield, Sergio Busquets showcased his trademark passing prowess, ranking among the top 15 players in MLS for passing value added. His reliability was unmatched, as he logged more minutes than any other outfield player on the team. Meanwhile, Jordi Alba provided a creative spark from left-back, landing in the 94th percentile for expected goals and assists per 90 minutes among full-backs.
The Unsung Heroes
While the star power of Messi and his former Barcelona teammates often dominated the headlines, Inter Miami’s success was equally dependent on the less heralded players who put in the hard yards. Diego Gómez, whose tireless running and defensive work rate earned him a move to Brighton & Hove Albion, ranked in the 95th percentile for tackles per 90 minutes among MLS midfielders. His energy and progressive carrying were vital in offsetting the more static play of the team’s veteran stars.
Julian Gressel, tasked with adapting to a complex hybrid role, still managed to excel in chance creation, placing ninth in key passes and 11th in expected assists among wingers. His ability to build around Messi and shoulder playmaking responsibilities in the superstar’s absence was invaluable.
Drake Callender put together the best shot-stopping season of his career, saving 3.6 goals more than expected. “He’s a goalkeeper that saves games,” head coach Gerardo Martino remarked. “He left us in the game, and that’s how we were able to win it.”
– A source close to the team
Unexpected Contributions
The 2024 season also saw the emergence of unlikely heroes. Rookie Yannick Bright, who began the year without a first-team contract, became a defensive stalwart, starting 12 of the last 15 regular-season games. His ball-winning ability placed him among the top 10 players in MLS for interrupting value added per 90 minutes.
Federico Redondo, a late addition to the squad, quickly showcased his potential as a well-rounded midfielder. He excelled in multiple facets of the game, ranking in the 80th percentile or higher among MLS midfielders in goals, dribbles, carries, through balls, tackles, and aerial wins per 90 minutes.
Paraguayan midfielder Matías Rojas, despite limited minutes, provided a valuable attacking option off the bench and in Messi’s absence. His first touch and vision placed him in the 83rd percentile for expected goals and assists per 90 minutes among midfielders, underlining the depth of Inter Miami’s squad.
A True Team Effort
As Jorge Mas aptly put it, “This is a team.” While the signings of Messi, Suárez, and Busquets undoubtedly transformed Inter Miami’s fortunes, the Supporters’ Shield triumph was a testament to the collective strength of the entire squad. From the star-studded attackers to the tireless midfielders and resolute defenders, every player had a role to play in this historic achievement.
The 2024 season will forever be remembered as the year Lionel Messi arrived in MLS, but it should also be celebrated as a showcase of the talent, dedication, and resilience of the Inter Miami players who stepped up when it mattered most. This Supporters’ Shield victory is not just about one man; it’s a story of a true team effort.
