Inter Miami head coach Javier Mascherano spoke out about a decision by Major League Soccer that could directly impact Lionel Messi.
The head coach of Inter Miami, Javier Mascherano, addressed a decision by Major League Soccer that may directly affect Lionel Messi, and he did not hesitate to make his stance on the matter clear.
The Herons are in the middle of an intense stretch of games. They had postponed several MLS matches while competing in the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 and are now making up those games with multiple midweek fixtures. In fact, they’ve played four matches in just eleven days and still face a tough road test this Saturday against New York Red Bulls.
Managing rest for the team’s star players has become a critical issue—to avoid injuries and to maximize their performance in key moments of the season. In that context, two of the team’s most important players, Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba, have been selected to take part in the upcoming All-Star Game next week.
Asked about this during Friday’s press conference, Mascherano was candid in his response. “Clearly, I would like them to be able to rest during the long week, after everything they’ve been through. But it’s not something that depends on me,” the head coach explained, according to Diario Ole.
“I have nothing to say. The players have been called up. I know how important the All-Star is in this league and in this country. As far as I know, there is no decision from the club. Everything is normal,” Mascherano added, suggesting that, although he sees the situation as less than ideal, Inter Miami will not take any steps to try and alter it.
When is the MLS All-Star Game?
The All-Star Game is set for next Wednesday, July 23, at Q2 Stadium in Austin, Texas, with kickoff scheduled for 9 PM ET. The event will feature the top players from Major League Soccer taking on a select squad from Liga MX of Mexico.
Inter Miami will be represented by Messi and Alba, both selected through fan voting. Other players participating in the match include San Diego FC’s Hirving Lozano, LAFC’s Denis Bouanga, Real Salt Lake’s Diego Luna, FC Cincinnati’s Evander, and Vancouver Whitecaps’ Sebastian Berhalter.
What’s next for Messi and Inter Miami
Inter Miami’s next match is this Saturday against New York Red Bulls on the road, marking the end of a packed schedule that began on July 5. After that, the team will finally get a full week of rest before facing FC Cincinnati.
In between, as mentioned earlier, Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba will travel to Austin to participate in the All-Star Game. Once those obligations are behind them, the Herons will begin their run in the Leagues Cup, opening against Atlas of Mexico on Wednesday, July 30, at Chase Stadium.
From: bolavip.com