Inter Miami's Countdown to 2024 MLS Kickoff Sparks Excitement, But Pre-season Takes a Toll

Jalen Neal Eagerly Anticipates Clash Against Messi and LA Galaxy in Season Opener

Inter Miami's much-anticipated journey into the 2024 MLS season is gaining momentum, with David Beckham's team set to kick off the campaign against the LA Galaxy on February 26. As the countdown to the season opener reaches its climax, a surprising revelation has emerged – the excitement isn't confined to the fans alone. A standout player from the LA Galaxy has openly expressed his enthusiasm to face the formidable squad led by Lionel Messi.

Pre-season Pains : Inter Miami Faces Stalemate Against EI Salvador, Farias Injury Adds to Concerns

Before the MLS action begins, Inter Miami is navigating through a series of pre-season friendlies. In a recent clash against El Salvador, Tata Martino's side found themselves in a tough battle that ended in a draw. However, the real story unfolded off the scoreboard, as Messi and his teammates experienced a physical and challenging contest.

Inter Miami's 2024 MLS campaign is generating significant buzz, not only among the fans but also among rival players. The LA Galaxy star, in particular, has openly shared his excitement about facing the likes of Lionel Messi and his teammates in what promises to be a thrilling season opener.

Jalen Neal Eager for the Challenge

As the opening fixture against the LA Galaxy approaches, United States defender Jalen Neal is gearing up for what he believes will be a great challenge. According to journalist Favian Renkel, Neal expressed his eagerness to test his skills against the best player of all time, Lionel Messi. The 20-year-old center-back, who made a breakthrough in the previous season with over 16 MLS appearances and a goal to his name, is looking to level up and make a mark against the football legend. Despite a setback in the final stages of the 2022–23 campaign due to abdominal problems, especially pubalgia, Neal is determined to make a strong comeback in the upcoming season. His anticipation and excitement add an extra layer of intrigue to Inter Miami's season opener.

Pre-season Pains: Injuries Cast Shadows

However, the path to the season opener is not without obstacles for Inter Miami. The team is currently engaged in pre-season friendlies, and a recent match against El Salvador ended in a stalemate. The contest, which felt like an 'every man for himself' scenario, took a toll on Messi and his teammates.

Facundo Farias, a key midfielder, suffered a significant injury during the second half, requiring assistance from the medical team to board the team bus. The severity of his injury casts doubt on his participation in the upcoming FC Dallas match and raises concerns about his involvement in the remaining pre-season fixtures in Saudi Arabia, Japan, and Hong Kong. Additionally, Messi's close friend Luis Suarez was seen applying ice to his knee after a tough tackle, further adding to the team's pre-season woes.

As the team navigates through the challenges of pre-season, there's hope that the setbacks won't dampen the spirits of Inter Miami's players and fans alike. The road to the 2024 MLS season opener may be bumpy, but the anticipation for an enthralling campaign remains undiminished.