Javier Mascherano has got off to a strong start as Inter Miami coach and remains unbeaten in the sides’ three pre-season games.
After defeating both Club America and Universitario on penalties the Herons ran out convincing 3-1 winners over Panamanian side Sporting San Miguelito.
Inter Miami fans were happy to see Tadeo Allende score his first goal for the club having joined on loan from Celta Vigo.
While Messi did not score in the game he has played a major part in the pre-season so far, something which might change as the season draws closer according to Mascherano.
Messi doubtful for Orlando City minutes
Messi is still the star attraction when it comes to watching Inter Miami play, and many in attendance will be desperate to get a glimpse of the superstar.
Despite increasing in age the star has lost none of his quality and Messi was recently named the MLS MVP for 2024.
Although Messi is yet to sign a new contract with the Herons talks are said to be positive, but David Beckham recently revealed Messi’s next destination.
Perhaps surprisingly Messi faced a tough reception from Mexcian fans of Club America, but on the whole many will want to witness a game by the man dubbed as one of soccer’s GOATs.
So the comments of Mascherano will leave many fans somewhat deflated with their chances of catching a glimpse of the star in the team’s upcoming fixtures somewhat slimmer.
Mascherano said: “Messi feels good playing, he knows his body and knows when he is well, the idea is for him to keep playing, but we will continue to manage his minutes. We still have to see the game against Orlando, it is close to the game against Sporting, we will see if he will play.”
Messi’s pre-season impact
In the three pre-season games so far Messi has played a combined 220 minutes on the field, considerably more than Mascherano perhaps expected.
Messi has scored just once in the three games but there should be little worry about this going forward, he will shine when the lights are on.
Inter Miami have two friendlies left, against Olimpia and Orlando City FC before the season truly gets going.
The Herons face Sporting Kansas City in the CONCACAF Champions Cup before kicking off their MLS season.
Messi and co. will face a tough test against New York City FC on February 22.