Pundit Kaylyn Kyle has named the Inter Miami figure behind the Herons’ recent form in MLS with Lionel Messi away with Argentina.
The Florida franchise have picked up two wins from two since Messi, Luis Suarez and Matias Rojas departed Inter Miami to compete at the Copa America, with the Chase Stadium side solidifying their spot at the top of the Supporters’ Shield standings.
A dramatic win with nine men against the Philadelphia Union was followed by an impressive 2-1 victory against reigning MLS Cup holders the Columbus Crew, with the result highlighted by the return of defender Ian Fray.
And former Canadian international Kyle has identified the key man behind Inter Miami’s surprise form.
Tata Martino showered with praise after Inter Miami growth this year
Speaking to MLS’s official website, Kyle highlighted how good Tata Martino has been at managing Inter Miami this season given all the upheaval the Herons have had to deal this year in terms of new signings and major injuries.
The former FC Barcelona and Mexico manager was appointed by Inter Miami shortly before the arrival of Messi, with Martino working with the Argentine international during a short spell in Catalonia with the La Liga giants.
And the hiring of Martino has proven to be a masterstroke from Inter Miami, with the 61-year-old coach the dream manager for the Herons given his experience in working in MLS as well as coaching the likes of Messi during his Barcelona days.
Kyle said on Martino: “Inter Miami continue to prove why they are top of the table. Tata Martino has been incredible, managing this team through international windows and injuries. The win at Philadelpha, being two men down, and Wednesday’s win against Columbus showed why they not only have talent but grit.”
Martino and Messi can lead Inter Miami to glory this year
Martino has shown that he is the perfect man to lead Inter Miami into this new era with Messi, Suarez and Sergio Busquets on their books, with the Argentine manager seemingly tailor-made for the role.
And this year could see Martino win his second MLS Cup with Inter Miami in the prime position to go all the way this season, with the Herons a shoo-in for the playoffs as well as the Supporters’ Shield.
Indeed, praise for Martino is more than warranted, and the Inter Miami manger will want to end the season on a massive high with the Herons looking like a safe bet to win silverware at some stage in 2024.