Diego Gómez: The Rising Star of Inter Miami CF and Future Premier League Sensation

On June 7, 2023, Lionel Messi made headlines by announcing his decision to join Inter Miami CF during a live interview with Spanish media. While this seismic move generated tremendous excitement among fans and stakeholders, it also initiated a significant overhaul of the club’s soccer operations to support Messi and his former FC Barcelona teammates who accompanied him to South Florida.

One of the first critical steps in this midseason roster revamp was the acquisition of Diego Gómez, facilitated by MLS’s Under-22 Initiative. This strategic move has proven highly successful, culminating in the announcement that the 21-year-old Paraguayan midfielder has been named the No. 1 player in the 2024 edition of MLSsoccer.com’s “22 Under 22” rankings, presented by BODYARMOR.

Balancing Youth and Experience

In a roster filled with legendary players such as Messi, Luis Suárez, Sergio Busquets, and Jordi Alba, Inter Miami recognized the necessity of pairing their wealth of experience with youthful energy and work ethic. Chris Henderson, Miami’s chief soccer officer and sporting director, explained, “We knew we needed to bring in some legs. That was one of our goals in recruiting young players—how do they balance off each other? What attributes will they add to the rest of the group?”

Henderson emphasized that although the veterans bring invaluable experience, the team required a dynamic player who could energize the squad. “When you look at the way we play when Diego Gómez is on the field, he’s a major weapon for us and has been one of the key players in this Supporters’ Shield run,” he stated.

Playing with Legends

After initially facing a steep learning curve upon joining Inter Miami last year, Gómez quickly developed a potent chemistry with Messi and Suárez during the 2024 campaign. His intelligent off-ball movements often open up defenses, allowing for fluid combination plays that result in scoring opportunities.

Gerardo “Tata” Martino praised Gómez’s contributions after he scored a crucial goal in Miami’s season-opening victory over Real Salt Lake. “Diego’s goal is superlative for the team tonight,” Martino remarked. “He’s understanding the game more and more, and he has the conditioning, both physically and footballing-wise.”

With his relentless work ethic, Gómez also plays a crucial role in defensive duties, relieving pressure on Busquets and the rest of the team’s backline. Martino recognized Gómez’s importance, stating, “He is a very important player for everything he gives us.”

An All-Around Talent

Gómez’s versatility and skill set have made him a beloved teammate. “Diego makes everything easy,” said Federico Redondo, who often partners with Gómez in midfield. “He always gives you a passing option, he recovers the ball, he gives it to you. I have no words for such a player.”

On the international stage, Gómez has excelled as well, leading Paraguay to a surprising title in the CONMEBOL Pre-Olympic Tournament with five goals. His performances have also helped La Albirroja progress in group play in France, culminating in a stunning goal during World Cup qualifying against Brazil.

“His ability to come up in big moments is impressive,” Henderson added. “He joins the attack, gets into the penalty box, and makes clever runs from midfield. He’s adept at breaking up plays defensively as well.”

A Game-Changer

Henderson draws parallels between Gómez and two of his iconic former USMNT teammates. “His change of pace, his acceleration—you wouldn’t look at him right away and think he’s fast, but he can dribble by defenders and accelerate past them. He’s a game-changer.”

Moreover, Gómez has made it clear he aspires to play in a top European league. His move to Miami was influenced by the success of his countryman Miguel Almirón, who flourished in MLS under Martino before securing a record transfer to Newcastle United in 2019.

“Playing under Tata has been excellent for developing young players,” Henderson noted. “Diego is a quiet boy who soaks everything in, and he’s coachable. He blends in while still making a significant impact on the field.”

Overseas Potential

As rumors swirl, Gómez is reportedly set to make a dream move to Brighton & Hove Albion in the English Premier League this winter, with a transfer fee approaching $20 million—potentially one of the largest outgoing transactions in MLS and Paraguayan soccer history.

Martino has lauded Gómez’s potential, stating, “He is a footballer who has a very good present, but also an impressive future. We will all be very happy if he manages to do it.”

In a recent interview, Martino emphasized that Gómez’s journey exemplifies MLS’s growth as a breeding ground for young talent, particularly South American players eager to reach the highest levels of the sport.

“I like to focus on young footballers who come to the league and change the way we perceive them,” he said. “If we can convince Diego to come here, develop, and then be sold to Europe, that’s fabulous for our growth.”