'Still have a lot to consider' - Inter Miami's Sergio Busquets expresses willingness to free up Designated Player spot, has not yet renewed contract

Sergio Busquets, Spanish midfielder for Inter Miami, expressed his willingness to release his designated player spot for the MLS club to make room for additional reinforcements.

Busquets arrived in Miami in June 2023 under then-head coach Gerardo Martino, and since has occupied one of the team's three designated player spots. But now the situation has changed.

Busquets has not renewed his contract with Inter and is on track to play his 100th match with the squad, which is seeking to win the MLS Cup.

"I wanted to come and enjoy a new stage in my sporting and family life, in a new club. There were many things to improve, and I wanted to contribute my experience. I’m very happy to have reached that milestone," he said of reaching 100 matches. 

Regarding his contract, he said, "There is no news. When I left Barça, I already knew I wouldn’t return to Spain or Europe. I’m closer to the end of my career than to continuing it. There’s nothing regarding a supposed renewal or a supposed retirement - when there’s news, we’ll communicate it."

The DP rule was adopted prior to the 2007 season, allowing David Beckham to join the LA Galaxy. 

It enables competition for global stars in Major League Soccer, a mechanism in which clubs can exceed their salary cap with a limited number of players. Busquets is one of the three franchise players for Inter Miami, along with Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba.

According to MLSPA, Busquets has a guaranteed salary of $8.7 million. Luis Suárez, who is not a DP, makes $1.5 million.

"Yes, obviously, I think it's obvious that the conditions would change because the three spots for each team are filled," Busquets said about potentially freeing up a DP spot. "I feel good. Luckily, injuries have respected me and coaches continue to count on me. I always said that when the time came to leave Barça, I wanted to do it the right way, and that’s what I did - I left while still winning titles. When the moment comes to announce a decision, I will do it. I still have a lot to consider."

Miami will face Orlando City Wednesday in the Leagues Cup semifinals.