Tata Martino has named the two Inter Miami players could replace Lionel Messi when the forward is away at the Copa America.
The 36-year-old attacker is expected to miss as many as six matches with the Herons with Argentina one of the early tournament favorites for this summer’s Copa America, which will take place in the United States.
With Luis Suarez also likely to be named in Marcelo Bielsa’s Uruguay squad, Inter Miami will be without a number of key players throughout June and July, and Drake Callender and Benjamin Cremaschi also in contention for US call-ups.
Yet Martino seemingly has a plan in order over how Inter Miami will cope without Messi.
Leonardo Campana and Robert Taylor earmarked to replace Messi
Speaking to the press after Inter Miami’s 1-0 win against DC United, Martino highlighted how Leonardo Campana and Robert Taylor are two players who will be key in replacing Messi this summer.
The two forwards have impressed in patches since the Argentine’s arrival last year, with Campana scoring the winning goal on Saturday with a sensational strike in stoppage time.
And this summer could see Campana and Taylor become two hugely influential players for Inter Miami, with a drop off in form expected from the Herons with Messi and company away.
Martino said: “We are going to suffer during the Copa America, but we have to know how to suffer, Leo Campana’s goal will give him confidence. Players like him, and Robert Taylor will be fundamental in this period.”
Damage limitation will be key for Inter Miami during the Copa America
Inter Miami’s record with and without Messi makes for telling reading, with the Herons simply unable to function at their maximum potential when the Argentine isn’t in the squad.
And this summer, damage limitation will be key for Inter Miami if they’re to keep their status as the Supporters’ Shield leaders intact.
Indeed, Messi’s absence will be big for Inter Miami, and Martino will have his hands full in working out plans to keep the Florida franchise ticking until the Argentine returns in July.