The American midfielder Benjamin Cremaschi has officially completed his transfer to Parma Calcio 1913, following the Serie A club’s decision to activate the purchase option on his loan spell. The deal, valued at just under $5 million, brings an end to Cremaschi’s time with Inter Miami CF after a season disrupted by injury and limited playing opportunities.
Cremaschi’s season in Italy took a sharp turn in March when a meniscus injury cut his campaign short after just nine appearances. The setback not only sidelined him but also created financial flexibility for the Miami-based club, allowing them to restructure their wage budget.
From loan to permanent: the path to Parma
Originally arriving at Parma on loan with an option to buy, Cremaschi’s move became permanent once the Italian side exercised their clause, which amounted to approximately €4 million. The young American, who came through Inter Miami’s academy, had been named the U.S. Young Player of the Year the previous season and has earned three caps for the U.S. national team.
His decision to leave Miami reflects broader discontent regarding playing time and tactical decisions under former coach Javier Mascherano. Despite being deployed in multiple positions, Cremaschi struggled to secure consistent minutes, leading to public frustration.
“I’m frustrated. I want to play,” he stated in August. “The most important thing for me is to perform at a high level, and to do that, I need playing time and experience. I haven’t played much lately, and I don’t think it’s a matter of my performance.”
A challenging adaptation in Serie A
Upon joining Parma, Cremaschi faced an uphill battle to regain his fitness and find his rhythm. His early promise was visible in October, but subsequent appearances were sporadic. The injury in March marked the premature end of a season that had already seen him battle for a starting berth in a competitive squad that had recently added Argentine midfielder Rodrigo De Paul.
Opportunity for growth and a new chapter
With his exit now confirmed, Cremaschi begins a new chapter in Italy, where Parma will look to integrate him into their long-term plans. The move also opens a door for Inter Miami, who may now pursue alternative reinforcements—including former Manchester United midfielder Casemiro, currently unattached—to bolster their roster.
