Lionel Messi’s Argentinian squad is set to safeguard its World Cup title this summer, while Inter Miami pursues its distinct aims.
Inter Miami has no plan to sideline Lionel Messi as the World Cup approaches. Head coach Javier Mascherano conceded that the club’s aspirations would be “unachievable” without his presence.
While Messi has not yet verified his participation for Argentina this summer, it’s difficult to imagine the 38-year-old not leading his country in their quest to hold onto the championship secured in Qatar back in 2022.
Inter Miami has commenced its MLS title defense robustly, logging three victories in five matches. This includes yesterday’s 3-2 triumph over New York City, a game where Messi netted a goal and participated for the entire 90 minutes.
Mascherano: Messi finds comfort on the pitch
Mascherano asserts that Messi thrives with consistent game time, though he emphasizes that all choices are made jointly with the eight-time Ballon d’Or recipient.
“Our aim is to protect him to the greatest extent possible. We recognize he is an athlete who feels most at ease and performs best when actively participating on the field – and we understand the physical impact of that,” remarked Mascherano, a former Argentine international himself.
“Presently, he is departing to unite with the national squad. Upon his comeback, we will merely observe his condition daily. Unquestionably, he is an indispensable player for us to fulfill our aims. Honestly, without him, attaining the targets we’ve established would be insurmountable.”
“Nevertheless, we also comprehend he is approaching the concluding phase [prior to the World Cup]. Yet, as I’ve stated previously – given my familiarity with him, and since numerous choices concerning him are made through shared consent – we must maintain open dialogue, continuously inquiring about his physical state and overall well-being.”
Messi Benefits from Tournament Exit
Messi’s timetable has become less demanding due to Miami’s exit from the CONCACAF Champions Cup at the hands of Nashville. Their last match prior to the league’s break for the World Cup is slated for May 24 versus Philadelphia, and Mascherano anticipates having a complete roster at his disposal until then.
“I don’t expect many mid-week competitions to be arranged over the forthcoming two months,” Mascherano remarked. “Only a couple or three weeks will see us without a game during the week. Otherwise, the itinerary will feature one encounter per week. Consequently, any instance we can rely on his [Messi’s] involvement, it signifies a favorable advantage for the squad.”
Messi has linked up with the Argentinian team in preparation for their international exhibition matches against Mauritania and Zambia.
The South American titleholders were slated to participate in the Finalissima against Euro 2024 victors Spain on Friday. However, the contest, planned for Qatar, was called off because of the continuous conflict in the Middle East.