Photo via Luis Suarez on X
Inter Miami has been dealt a major blow ahead of their must-win MLS matchup against Nashville SC. The MLS Disciplinary Committee has announced that Luis Suárez will be suspended for one match and fined for violent conduct during the 71st minute of the game on November 1.
Suárez will serve his suspension on November 8, when Inter Miami meets Nashville once again. Meanwhile, Ian Fray has been fined for simulation and embellishment in the 4th minute of the same match.
Controversy Over the MLS Decision
Many fans and analysts view the suspension as harsh. The play in question arguably warranted a yellow card, yet Suárez will miss a critical fixture. The match itself was filled with rough challenges, and Inter Miami had two potential penalties denied — one involving Allende being pushed and another where his arm was pulled in the box. Both were waved off by the referee and ignored by VAR.
Adding to the frustration, there was also an incident where Suárez appeared to receive an elbow to the face, a clear violation under MLS policy that prohibits contact with the face. However, neither the referee nor the disciplinary committee acted on it — prompting questions about consistency and fairness in MLS officiating.
History of Questionable MLS Decisions Against Miami
This isn’t the first time Inter Miami has been at the center of disciplinary controversies. Earlier this season, red cards for Ian Fray and Maxi Falcón were overturned after review, proving that initial judgments had been wrong. Many fans believe these recurring incidents reflect inconsistency rather than bias.
Ironically, rival fans often accuse MLS of “bending the rules” for Messi and Inter Miami. However, these recent decisions suggest otherwise — if anything, the league’s disciplinary actions appear stricter toward Miami.
Tactical Implications for Mascherano’s Lineup
The suspension now forces Javier Mascherano to rethink his attacking options. Inter Miami has already played six matches without Luis Suárez this season — winning two, drawing one, and losing three. Notably, Messi missed one of those defeats, a 3–1 loss to FC Dallas.
With Nashville’s defense proving physical and resilient, the question remains: Can Inter Miami find attacking rhythm without their veteran striker?
Mascherano may opt for a front line led by Messi and Allende or shift to a more compact midfield, relying on Messi’s creativity to bridge the gap. The outcome could define Miami’s playoff hopes — and perhaps settle the narrative around whether MLS truly favors or penalizes Inter Miami.
