Luis Suarez has cast doubt over his proposed reunion with Lionel Messi at Inter Miami, with the veteran striker hinting at possible retirement.
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Bringing an end to spell in BrazilExpected to head for MLSNo future decision made as yetWHAT HAPPENED?
The 36-year-old Uruguayan frontman has taken in his last appearance for Brazilian side Gremio, with the decision taken to release him from the final year of his contract. An emotional farewell has been bid there, with Suarez netting 24 goals and providing 17 assists in 52 games this year. The expectation was that he would now make his way to the United States and join ex-Barcelona team-mate in Florida.
AdvertisementGettyWHAT SUAREZ SAID
Suarez has, however, suggested that there are no guarantees that he will end up in MLS, with no decision made as yet regarding an extension to his playing career through 2024. The former Liverpool frontman has said: “I can feel pain, my body is speaking for me. I want to enjoy and then decide for myself after a long career. I need to rest, enjoy my family… then the destiny will know where I'll be in the future.”
THE BIGGER PICTURE
Gremio boss Renato Gaucho has said of working with Suarez, who is considered to be an all-time great: “Are we going to miss him? Certainly, without a doubt, he is very loved by everyone. I had the pleasure of working with a great professional, one of the best in the world, fourth highest scorer in the world. This void will remain for the next year, because it's not easy to find someone of his talent and ability. When you find someone else, it's unfeasible to bring him in financially. Unfortunately, as I said before, it was very difficult for him to stay. Everyone wanted it, but only he could reverse this decision. Unfortunately, he will leave and there will be this vacuum in Gremio's attack. Then it's up to the board and president to try and find another striker. It was a great pleasure, not only for me but for the whole club. A guy who always gave himself, an exemplary professional.”
GettyWHAT NEXT FOR SUAREZ?
There remains every chance that Suarez will be alongside Messi when the next MLS season gets underway, with the Argentine icon – who is also 36 years of age – taking in a well-earned rest of his own before going in pursuit of more major silverware that will enhance his standing as the most decorated player in history.
