In a surprising turn of events, Real Madrid legend Sergio Ramos is reportedly considering a move to Inter Miami, the Major League Soccer (MLS) club co-owned by former teammate David Beckham. However, the prospect of his arrival is being met with resistance from the club's growing contingent of former FC Barcelona players.
Ramos, whose contract with Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) expired at the end of the 2022/23 season, is keen on reuniting with Lionel Messi, who recently joined Inter Miami after a two-year stint with PSG. Despite their shared time at PSG, Messi and Ramos rarely played together due to injuries and other circumstances.
While Ramos has received interest from Saudi Arabia, he is reportedly holding off on talks, hoping for a call from Inter Miami. However, the club's salary cap and the recent signings of former Barcelona greats Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba have complicated the financial situation. The club is also reportedly interested in Luis Suarez, further complicating matters.
Messi, who has had a successful start in Miami, scoring five goals in three matches, is reportedly not keen on reuniting with Ramos. The sentiment is shared by other former Barcelona players at Inter Miami, who are opposed to playing alongside the former Real Madrid captain. Their club rivalry appears to be taking precedence over their shared national team experience.
Reports also suggest that Messi and Ramos never really struck up a good relationship during their time together at PSG. Ramos reportedly built a stronger connection with the PSG players who are closer to French striker Kylian Mbappe.
If the Inter Miami deal does not materialize, Ramos still has other options. MLS rivals LAFC are said to be interested, as well as some big South American clubs. LAFC, with its good track record with ex-Real Madrid players, may be a viable option for Ramos. Most recently, Gareth Bale had a successful spell with the club, winning the MLS Cup and Supporters' Shield in just a few months before announcing his retirement from professional football.
As the situation unfolds, fans and pundits alike will be watching closely to see where Ramos will land next, and how his decision could impact the dynamics of Inter Miami and the MLS at large.
