(foto: Uradni FB/TW/IG profil igralca)
Inter Miami’s struggles, USMNT’s Nations League matchup, and Luis Suarez’s future were hot topics in the latest edition of The Rondo, where GOAL US writers debated the latest headlines in American soccer.
Messi and Inter Miami’s early playoff exit
Inter Miami’s first-round playoff loss to Atlanta United has sparked questions about the team’s future. Tom Hindle called the defeat “embarrassing” for a club that “should have won” given their star-studded roster, but believes they’ll retool for next season. Ryan Tolmich suggested Miami doesn’t need a full rebuild, but should make defensive upgrades with funds from Diego Gomez’s transfer. Jacob Schneider pointed out Miami’s structural flaws, citing poor roster balance as a critical issue.
With Miami out, the MLS Cup contenders shift west. Hindle and Tolmich tipped LAFC and the LA Galaxy as favorites, while Schneider argued the West’s strength should decide the championship.
Should Miami keep Suarez?
Hindle and Tolmich debated whether Luis Suarez should stay with Miami, given his friendship with Messi. Hindle thinks Suarez has enough left in the tank for another year, while Tolmich sees Suarez as valuable if he agrees to a TAM deal, leaving a Designated Player spot open—possibly for Neymar. Schneider believes Suarez’s future hinges on the terms; a DP contract would be too costly, but a cheaper deal could be feasible.
USMNT vs. Jamaica in Nations League
The USMNT’s upcoming Nations League quarterfinal against Jamaica has fans buzzing, with Mauricio Pochettino’s squad aiming to win back-to-back games. Hindle expects a comfortable 4-1 series victory, while Tolmich anticipates a narrow win in Jamaica followed by a stronger showing in St. Louis. Schneider, however, sees two straight wins as the only acceptable outcome, given the USMNT’s dominance over Jamaica in recent matchups.
USMNT’s key players outside Pulisic
Beyond Christian Pulisic, Tim Weah was highlighted as a game-changer, especially with his scoring form at Juventus. However, Weah’s suspension for the first leg means players like Brenden Aaronson and Antonee Robinson could play pivotal roles. Robinson will be tasked with shutting down Leon Bailey, while Tim Ream will contend with Michail Antonio, both essential in securing defensive stability.