Luis Suarez, the veteran Uruguayan striker, might miss out on joining Lionel Messi at MLS side Inter Miami due to persistent knee problems, reported by GOAL. Having played his final game for Brazilian club Gremio, the 36-year-old is now set to become a free agent. While initial expectations were for Suarez to reunite with former Barcelona teammate Messi in Florida, the striker has hinted at the possibility of retirement due to ongoing fitness concerns causing “constant pain.”

Speaking to Sport 890 radio about his challenging situation, Suarez detailed the difficulties he faces on the field: “On the outside of my knee, I have tension from surgery in 2020 when I was at Barcelona. In my last stage of recovery, the pandemic came, and I couldn't finish stretching my knee. On the inside, I have cartilage wear that hits the bone. The days before each game, I take three pills and get an injection hours before playing. Otherwise, I can't play.”

Despite the hurdles, Suarez has remarkably delivered 27 goals in 52 appearances for Gremio in 2023. However, he acknowledges the toll on his body and contemplates the inevitable challenges ahead: “I have to think that in maybe five years, I won't be able to play five-a-side football with my friends. The first steps in the morning are very painful. Anyone who sees me thinks that it's impossible for me to play a game. My son asks me to play with him, and I can't.”

While Suarez remains determined to continue playing, the uncertainty looms over his future. Inter Miami, having recently parted ways with Josef Martinez, could be in the market for a striker. Lionel Messi, aiming for more success in 2024, would likely welcome the chance to have Luis Suarez alongside him in the MLS, should the veteran forward decide to extend his career.