The 20-year-old was injured during a non-contact sequence in the first half of Inter Miami’s Liga Cup match against Cruz Azul in the MX League on Friday night. He was recovering, then fell and was visibly upset before running off with help.
It is Fray’s third long-term ACL injury since signing his home-grown deal in January 2021, creating another setback the teenager hopes to overcome.
Fray’s last two injuries kept him out of MLS action from 2021-22, but he rebounded with 1g/1a in 11 league games (seven starts) this season. He has also shown versatility, playing across the back line and in midfield.
Although they became teammates a few days earlier, Inter Miami’s new superstar Lionel Messi dedicated Cruz Azul’s game to Fray. Messi promptly scored a symbolic free-kick in the 94th minute to seal a 2-1 victory at the DRV PNK Stadium.
“I want to dedicate this victory to Ian, who suffered in the dressing room because of the injury he suffered,” Messi said. “He’s had two serious injuries and a long time out and he was unlucky to have another one that looks serious, so I want to wish him strength. He’s a young kid who will recover and be back with us, hopefully soon.”
Fray joins a long absence for Inter Miami, with midfielder Corentin Jean and left-back Franco Negri also out for the year. Midfielders Gregore and Jean Mota suffered early injuries but could return in 2023.