Casemiro Debuts in 1-0 Win as Inter Miami Signs Midfielder Through 2027

Former Manchester United midfielder Casemiro debuted for Inter Miami in a 1-0 victory over CF Montreal after signing a contract through the 2027 season.

Inter Miami secured a 1-0 victory over CF Montreal on Saturday night in Canada, marking the debut of Brazilian midfielder Casemiro. The 34-year-old joined the club as a free agent following his departure from Manchester United at the conclusion of last season. His new contract runs through the 2027 MLS sprint season and includes an extension option that could keep him in Florida until June 2029. The reigning MLS champions have now won two consecutive matches since the league resumed play after the World Cup.

Currently, Inter Miami sits second in both the Eastern Conference and the Supporters' Shield race. The team has accumulated 37 points, trailing leader Nashville SC by two points. Casemiro is scheduled to make his home debut at Nu Stadium this Saturday against the Columbus Crew. The midfielder arrives at a club that has secured three major trophies since 2023: the Leagues Cup, the 2024 Supporters' Shield, and the 2025 MLS Cup.

Casemiro Cites Messi as Primary Motivation

Casemiro described Lionel Messi as the "god of football" and the "best player of all time" during his introduction to reporters on Thursday. The Brazilian chose Miami despite having multiple offers to continue his career in Italy and other global locations. He noted that his primary objective is to help the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner add more trophies to a record-breaking career. Having spent nine seasons at Real Madrid, Casemiro frequently faced Messi during his tenure at FC Barcelona.

Reflecting on their history as rivals, Casemiro admitted that Messi caused him a significant amount of problems on the pitch. He stated that he could never stop the Argentine forward without assistance from teammates. The midfielder expressed a desire to compete alongside the player he previously struggled to defend, emphasizing his intent to help Messi become "bigger" through continued winning.

World Cup Performance and Return to Training

Lionel Messi returned to training in Miami on Wednesday following a break in Argentina. The 37-year-old has not appeared for his club since the World Cup, where he scored eight goals to lead Argentina to the final. That tournament ended in a 1-0 loss to Spain. While Messi is back with the squad, the specific date for his return to the active lineup remains unconfirmed.

Casemiro also participated in the recent World Cup, appearing in all five matches for Brazil. His national team suffered a round-of-16 exit following a defeat to Norway. After leaving the Premier League as a free agent, the midfielder transitioned directly into the Inter Miami squad to bolster a roster that already features the most decorated player in history.

Inter Miami Roster Dynamics and League Standings

The addition of Casemiro comes as MLS Power Rankings monitor whether Robert Lewandowski can move Chicago up the order. For Miami, the focus remains on maintaining their position at the top of the Eastern Conference. The club is looking to build on the momentum of their recent 1-0 result in Canada as they prepare for the upcoming fixture at Nu Stadium.

Casemiro reiterated his commitment to the competitive environment in Miami, stating he is exactly where he wants to be. He emphasized that he joined the team not just to enjoy the atmosphere but to actively compete and win. The Brazilian's arrival adds veteran experience to a side that has already captured the 2023 Leagues Cup and the 2025 MLS Cup title.