Inter Miami coach Mascherano refuses to rest Lionel Messi ahead of World Cup
Inter Miami head coach Javier Mascherano has confirmed he will not rest Lionel Messi in the build-up to the 2026 World Cup, describing the forward as essential to the club’s success.
The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner played the full 90 minutes and scored as the Florida franchise defeated New York City FC 3-2 at Yankee Stadium on Sunday.
Speaking to reporters via Zoom while serving a touchline ban, Mascherano stressed the absolute importance of his captain.
Managing the workload
“Clearly, he is a vital player for us if we are to achieve our objectives; quite frankly, without him, it would be impossible for us to reach the goals we have set for ourselves.”
The former Barcelona midfielder acknowledged the physical demands on the veteran attacker as the international tournament in North America approaches.
However, the Miami boss insisted the global superstar prefers to remain active on the pitch rather than watching from the sidelines.
“We try to look after him as much as possible, but we know that he is the kind of player who feels most comfortable when he is out on the pitch playing.”
International commitments
The legendary playmaker will now travel to join the Argentina squad for their March international fixtures against Mauritania and Zambia.
The reigning world champions were originally scheduled to face Spain in the Finalissima, but the fixture was cancelled after UEFA and CONMEBOL failed to agree on a new venue.
Following his national team duties, the World Cup-winning captain will return to a significantly streamlined domestic schedule.
Inter Miami were recently eliminated from the Concacaf Champions Cup by Nashville SC, leaving them solely focused on Major League Soccer.
Monitoring physical condition
“There are only two or three weeks where we won’t have a game during the week; otherwise, it will be a schedule of one match per week.”
With fewer midweek fixtures on the horizon, the coaching staff plan to assess the talismanic forward on a daily basis.
The prolific goalscorer has yet to officially confirm his participation in the 2026 World Cup, stating his decision will depend entirely on his fitness levels.
“We have to keep the lines of communication open, constantly checking in on his physical sensations and how he is feeling.”
