The Inter Miami fanbase is passionate and growing rapidly. While some supporters may be excited at the prospect of De Bruyne joining the club, many would be equally thrilled to see Messi and Di Maria reunite on American soil
The nostalgia, the chemistry, and the emotional pull of their friendship could rally the fanbase in favor of the Di Maria option.
Moreover, locker room harmony is crucial in football — particularly in MLS, where squad cohesion often outweighs raw talent. Messi’s preferences could play a pivotal role in ensuring the dressing room remains united and focused.
While nothing is official yet, the signs are there: Inter Miami wants to build a dynasty, and Kevin De Bruyne might be the next piece of the puzzle.
With the discovery rights in hand and the allure of teaming up with Lionel Messi, the move is more than just a pipe dream.
Whether or not De Bruyne ultimately decides to head to MLS, one thing is clear—Inter Miami is redefining what’s possible in American soccer.
Also Read: Who Is Michèle De Bruyne (Kevin De Bruyne Wife)? Relationship Timeline Explored
Table of Contents
Lionel Messi Reportedly Opposes Inter Miami’s Pursuit of Kevin De Bruyne
Inter Miami’s ambitions for the 2025 season are no secret. With Lionel Messi spearheading the revolution and Javier Mascherano at the helm as head coach, the Herons are looking to bring in world-class reinforcements.1
One of the top names reportedly on their radar is Kevin De Bruyne, the Manchester City legend who has announced his intention to leave the Etihad at the end of the current season.
However, an unexpected twist has emerged — Lionel Messi is reportedly not on board with the idea of signing De Bruyne.
The Belgian Maestro’s Imminent Departure
Kevin De Bruyne, widely regarded as one of the best midfielders of his generation, recently confirmed that he will be leaving Manchester City.
At 33 years old, he has enjoyed a glittering career with the Cityzens, winning numerous Premier League titles, domestic cups, and most notably, the UEFA Champions League.
His next move is heavily speculated to be a glamorous finale in the MLS, with Inter Miami emerging as the frontrunner.
With De Bruyne available as a free agent, many believed the transfer would be a no-brainer for a club like Inter Miami, which thrives on star power and global appeal. However, Messi’s reported objection could throw a wrench in those plans.
Messi’s Influence at Inter Miami
- Lionel Messi’s arrival at Inter Miami in 2023 changed the face of Major League Soccer. Not only has he elevated the club’s profile, but he has also wielded significant influence off the pitch.
- Messi’s relationship with club owner Jorge Mas is well-documented, and he’s been given a semi-consultative role when it comes to shaping the team’s roster and vision.
- Given that level of influence, any major signing — particularly one involving a superstar like Kevin De Bruyne — would likely require Messi’s informal approval. That’s where things have started to shift in an unexpected direction.
- According to reports from The Sun, Messi is advocating for Angel Di Maria, his longtime international teammate, to be signed instead of Kevin De Bruyne.
- Di Maria, currently with Portuguese side Benfica, will also be out of contract this summer. Despite being 37, Di Maria remains a classy and effective winger who still contributes at a high level — especially in short bursts.
- Messi and Di Maria share an extensive history both at the club level (with PSG) and internationally with Argentina.
- Their chemistry is undeniable, having played 141 matches together and combining for 16 goals across competitions. It’s no surprise that Messi would want to reunite with a player who understands his game inside and out.
Di Maria’s Potential Role in Miami
If signed, Angel Di Maria would bring more than just skill — he would bring leadership, familiarity, and synergy with Messi.
While he might not have the long-term value of a younger player, his addition could be instrumental in short-term success, especially if Inter Miami has aspirations of winning the MLS Cup or competing internationally in tournaments like the CONCACAF Champions Cup.
For Messi, who is nearing the twilight of his own career, playing with someone he trusts on and off the pitch could be the difference between a good season and a great one.
Kevin De Bruyne vs. Di Maria: A Tactical Contrast
From a purely tactical standpoint, De Bruyne and Di Maria are very different players.2
De Bruyne is a deep-lying playmaker, capable of dictating the tempo of a game, launching pinpoint through balls, and delivering set-piece magic.
Di Maria, on the other hand, is more of a wide attacker who thrives on creative movement, link-up play, and quick combinations — particularly with players like Messi.
Javier Mascherano would face a very different set of tactical implications depending on which player the club chooses to pursue.
If the goal is to create a fluid, attack-minded front line that revolves around Messi, Di Maria would be a logical fit. If the aim is to build a more balanced midfield, De Bruyne could provide the structure and creativity needed.
Dear Manchester. 💙 pic.twitter.com/2EdhVYOLti
— Kevin De Bruyne (@KevinDeBruyne) April 4, 2025
Mascherano’s Influence in the Decision-Making
Head coach Javier Mascherano, who took over in November 2024, will undoubtedly have a voice in the recruitment process.
The former Argentine international and ex-teammate of Messi is building a squad with a mix of young talent and veteran experience. So far, Mascherano has made four signings and is expected to push for more this summer.
If Mascherano prioritizes tactical versatility and the ability to control games from midfield, he may lean toward Kevin De Bruyne.
However, given his bond with Messi and understanding of dressing room dynamics, he could be swayed in favor of Di Maria — especially if Messi strongly backs that move.
Kevin De Bruyne: Branding and Marketing
From a commercial standpoint, both players offer unique value.3
Kevin De Bruyne has a massive following in Europe and is still considered one of the most marketable midfielders in world football.
His presence would help Inter Miami tap into new fanbases, particularly in the UK and continental Europe.
Di Maria, while older, offers another type of appeal. His ties to Argentina, his status as a World Cup winner, and his connection with Messi make him a sentimental favorite for Latin American and South American audiences — a demographic Inter Miami has been aggressively targeting.
Choosing between the two is not just a footballing decision — it’s also a branding decision. Inter Miami must weigh the short-term chemistry boost of signing Di Maria against the long-term commercial and tactical advantage of acquiring De Bruyne.
MLS Salary Cap and Roster Rules
Another aspect to consider is the MLS salary cap and Designated Player (DP) rule.
The league allows each team to have three players whose wages exceed the salary cap, and Inter Miami’s current DP spots are already heavily invested in top-tier talent like Messi and Sergio Busquets.
Bringing in De Bruyne or Di Maria would likely mean reshuffling the roster or potentially buying down an existing DP contract.
This adds another layer of complexity to the decision. Di Maria, who may command slightly lower wages than De Bruyne, could be the more financially viable option — especially if he’s willing to sign a one-year deal.
What Happens Next?
As the summer transfer window approaches, all eyes will be on Inter Miami’s front office. The decision between Kevin De Bruyne and Angel Di Maria could define not only the club’s 2025 season but also shape its identity for years to come.
Will they pursue the proven brilliance of De Bruyne, even without Messi’s full support? Or will they opt for the familiar chemistry and emotional appeal of Di Maria, aligning more closely with Messi’s vision?
One thing is certain — Lionel Messi remains the central figure in Miami’s soccer story, and his influence could once again determine the club’s direction.
Also Read: Jeremiyah Love: Could He Lead Notre Dame to the College Football Playoff?
Will Kevin De Bruyne Join Lionel Messi at Inter Miami?
The landscape of Major League Soccer (MLS) could be in for another seismic shift.
Following the arrivals of global icons like Lionel Messi, Sergio Busquets, and Jordi Alba at Inter Miami, the club is now being linked to Manchester City’s midfield maestro Kevin De Bruyne.
As De Bruyne’s contract at City edges toward its conclusion, speculation is mounting over his next move. Could a partnership with Messi in sunny Florida be next on the cards?
Discovery Rights: Why Inter Miami Are in Pole Position
According to ESPN, Inter Miami hold Kevin De Bruyne’s MLS “discovery rights.” This may sound like a technicality, but it’s crucial. The MLS uses a system that allows clubs to claim exclusive negotiating rights with players not currently in the league.
Each team can list up to five players on their discovery list. Once a player is listed, that team has the first right to sign him if he expresses interest in moving to MLS.
In De Bruyne’s case, Inter Miami being the team with his discovery rights gives them a significant advantage—they can begin talks before any other MLS club.
View this post on Instagram
Messi and De Bruyne: A Dream Duo or a Creative Clash?
On paper, Lionel Messi and Kevin De Bruyne playing together seems like a match made in football heaven. Both are creative forces capable of dictating the pace of the game, delivering pinpoint assists, and scoring goals when needed.
Messi is already Inter Miami’s all-time leading scorer, while De Bruyne is widely recognized as one of the best assist providers in football history.
However, some reports suggest that Messi may have reservations about bringing De Bruyne into the fold. Whether that stems from concerns about balance in the midfield, wage demands, or locker room dynamics remains unclear.
What is certain is that the final decision will involve careful consideration from all parties, including Beckham and head coach Gerardo Martino.
The Financial Equation: Can Inter Miami Afford Him?
De Bruyne currently earns a reported £400,000 a week at Manchester City. While MLS salaries typically pale in comparison, Inter Miami have already shown a willingness to break the bank for marquee signings.
The Designated Player Rule—often referred to as the “Beckham Rule”—allows clubs to pay top players outside the league’s standard salary cap.
Inter Miami currently has all three designated player slots occupied (likely by Messi, Busquets, and Josef Martínez), but they can always restructure contracts or offload players to free up space.
Additionally, with the financial benefits De Bruyne would bring through merchandise sales, sponsorships, and international attention, the investment could prove worthwhile.
Kevin De Bruyne: Premier League Legend’s New Chapter
Kevin De Bruyne has carved out an extraordinary legacy in European football.
With multiple Premier League titles, FA Cups, and a UEFA Champions League medal to his name, the Belgian playmaker has established himself as one of the greatest midfielders of his generation.
Known for his vision, passing range, and tactical intelligence, De Bruyne is the kind of player that can transform a game with a single pass.
However, with age and injuries catching up, the 32-year-old is nearing the end of his peak years.
His contract with Manchester City expires at the end of the current season, and while a short extension is possible, he might also be tempted by the opportunity to write a new chapter in the United States.
Inter Miami: Building a Superteam in South Beach
Since Lionel Messi joined Inter Miami in 2023, the club has taken giant strides in terms of brand visibility, ticket sales, and on-pitch performances.
With co-owner David Beckham playing a significant role in luring top talent, Inter Miami has embraced the idea of becoming the most attractive destination in MLS.
Adding Kevin De Bruyne to a lineup that already features Messi would elevate the team to an entirely new level.
Not only would it boost Inter Miami’s chances of winning domestic and continental titles, but it would also make them one of the most-watched clubs in global football.
Also Read: John Terry (Football): Who Is He? Bio, Wiki, Career, Net Worth 2024 and Birthday Celebration
