Inter Miami suffered a 4-1 thrashing against Orlando City in the Florida Derby without their main man Lionel Messi.

Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami may be pushing for success in MLS, but not everyone in the squad is content with their role.

Reports in Mexico and the U.S. suggest that Inter Miami is close to signing the 30-year-old defender for a fee in the $6-7 million range. Piovi joined Cruz Azul from Racing in 2024 for $2.5 million and has made 74 appearances for La Máquina.

Although the win saw Lionel Messi return from injury with a goal and an assist, it capped off a week that saw tensions rise between the club’s American players, head coach Javier Mascherano and others.

Javier Mascherano slams MLS for suspending Lionel Messi, questioning league priorities and rules after Inter Miami’s draw with FC Cincinnati.

Lionel Messi and Luis Suárez scored in the 86th and 89th minutes, respectively, to seal the victory for the Herons.

See the goals that made Javier Mascherano question his players after a 4-1 mauling at Orlando, with Lionel Messi absent through injury.