Photo by Franklin Jacome/Getty Images

Lionel Messi, Inter Miami Get Positive News Ahead of 2026 MLS Season

Originally posted on Athlon Sports
By Manuel Meza Cienfuegos | Last updated Feb 7, 2026 10:09 PM ET

Inter Miami received a good omen for the 2026 MLS season in its 2-2 draw against Barcelona SC on Saturday.

Its most recent signing in attack, German Berterame, debuted as a scorer for the Herons, netting a goal in the 45+3rd minute, assisted by Messi, making it clear he arrived to make an immediate impact.

This is also great news for Miami's No. 10, as it is a partnership that is just beginning and can develop and improve as the Major League Soccer season progresses.

The confirmed continuity of Luis Suarez as a striker option for Javier Mascherano worried fans and observers, as the Uruguayan is not at the best moment of his career. But it seems he will rather be seen as a luxury impact substitute, and Berterame, who has confirmed he arrives in good form, will take over.

German Berterame of Inter Miami celebrates after scoring his team's second goal during a friendly match between Barcelona SC and Inter Miami at Estadio Monumental Isidro Romero Carbo on February 7, 2026, in Guayaquil, Ecuador.Photo by Franklin Jacome/Getty Images

What Is Next for Inter Miami & Lionel Messi?

The preseason has concluded for Inter Miami, and what follows is the start of the 2026 MLS season.

After losing 3-0 to Alianza Lima, winning 2-1 against Atletico Nacional, and drawing 2-2 against Barcelona SC, the Herons will prepare for two weeks before their season opener.

On Feb. 21, they will visit Los Angeles FC at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum for a 'clash of titans' between the teams of Messi and Son Heung-Min.

Subsequently, Miami will have a streak of four away matches throughout March: against Orlando City on the 1st, D.C. United on the 7th, Charlotte FC on the 14th, and New York City on the 22nd.

It will not be until April 4 when Inter Miami plays for the first time in its history at Miami Freedom Park, when it hosts Austin FC.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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