Football Season Guide

Inter Miami achieved their minimum aim of making it to the playoffs in their inaugural campaign but it was a disappointing season all around as they struggled to pick up points on a consistent basis despite some good performances before being knocked out in the play-in round of the playoffs by fellow expansion side Nashville. Miami have reacted by making changes both off and on the pitch, first by relieving Diego Alonso of his job and replacing him with Phil Neville. The coach has not been their only import from England with Kieran Gibbs and Ryan Shawcross arriving on free transfers and the duo, along with fellow new arrivals Kelvin Leerdam and Joevin Jones, are expected to shore up the defense. Their biggest acquisition though is in the midfield with Gregore signing on a multi million deal and is expected to screen the defense, allowing more freedom to Rodolfo Pizarro and Blaise Matuidi to focus on their creative duties. Wil Trapp has made way for Gregore's arrival after the American international failed to nail down the midfield spot as his own with some underwhelming displays last season. Miami have also let go of a number of defenders with DeLaGarza, Andre Reyes, Alvas Powell, Ben Sweat and Mikey Ambrose all leaving the club. They are willing to give their attack a second chance though they could muster up just 25 goals from 23 games last season. That output needs to improve considerably for Miami who will also be hoping that their new signings and the coach settle down quickly as they look for a far more comfortable progress to the playoffs.