Inter Miami announces 5 new signings, strengthening their squad around Messi.
Following their MLS championship win, Inter Miami immediately added five young players from SuperDraft 2026, demonstrating their ambition to build a deep squad to defend their title.
Ambition to defend the title
Immediately after concluding a successful season with the MLS championship, Inter Miami quickly began strengthening their squad for the 2026 season. Instead of resting on their laurels, Lionel Messi's team clearly demonstrated their ambition to build a deep squad capable of competing on multiple fronts and defending their title.
In the latest development, Inter Miami has officially announced the five new players selected for the 2026 MLS SuperDraft. The SuperDraft is the league's annual draft, where clubs recruit young talent from the American college soccer system (NCAA) and other eligible young players.
New recruits from SuperDraft
The five names selected by Inter Miami include:
- Abdel Talabi: Defender from Bryant University
- Kenan Hot: Midfielder from Duke University
- Mamadi JianaForward from Bryant University
- Alex BargerDefender from Indiana University
- Maximilian KisselForward from the University of Vermont
Among them, 24-year-old defender Abdel Talabi is considered the most notable name. He made 80 appearances at college level for Bryant between 2020 and 2025. In his final season, Talabi started all 22 games, scoring 3 goals and providing 2 assists, an impressive record for a defender.
Challenges and opportunities
However, the path for these newcomers to secure a spot in Inter Miami's first team is predicted to be very challenging. History shows that not many players from SuperDraft can quickly establish themselves at a star-studded club like Inter Miami.
Yannick Bright is a rare example of success. Selected before the 2024 season, Bright has made 72 appearances in all competitions and become a consistent force in midfield. In contrast, other names like Leo Afonso, Ryan Sailor, and Robbie Robinson, despite being given opportunities, have not made a lasting impact. This highlights the enormous challenge facing young players.
Overall transfer strategy
The selection of players from SuperDraft is just one part of Inter Miami's overall transfer strategy. The team is also actively working in the professional market, having signed Spanish full-back Sergio Reguilon and extended Luis Suarez's contract until 2026.
Furthermore, Inter Miami is also close to finalizing a deal with Canadian goalkeeper Dayne St. Clair, who was named the best goalkeeper of 2025. These moves demonstrate a clear strategy: combining the experience of established stars with the youth and ambition of new recruits, aiming to create a squad with enough depth to overcome the challenges of a long and demanding MLS season.
