Inter Miami CF head coach Javier Mascherano is not planning to rest captain Lionel Messi during the crucial final games leading up to the 2026 World Cup. Mascherano stressed the importance of Messi’s participation for the team’s success.
“We are doing our best to take care of him,” Mascherano stated following Miami’s 3-2 win over NYCFC. “He’s the type of player who thrives when he’s on the field, and we all know what that means for his performance.”
Mascherano was addressing the media through a videoconference after serving a one-match suspension for a red card received in last weekend’s match against Charlotte.
“He is set to join the national team soon, and upon his return, we’ll keep a close watch on his condition, checking in daily,” Mascherano noted. “He’s essential for us to meet our objectives. Honestly, without him, it would be challenging to achieve what we aim for.”
“While we recognize we’re approaching the World Cup, and it’s a crucial period for him, we understand him well. Many decisions regarding his playtime come from mutual discussions, so we will maintain open communication about how he’s feeling physically,” he added.
Messi hasn’t confirmed his participation in the World Cup, indicating he will decide based on his fitness level leading up to the tournament in North America.
With Inter Miami’s recent exit from the Concacaf Champions Cup against Nashville SC, the team will now focus solely on regular-season MLS matches as the World Cup approaches.
“We don’t have many midweek games planned in the next couple of months,” Mascherano said. “There are only two or three weeks without midweek matches. Otherwise, we’re looking at one match per week, making his availability a significant advantage for us.”
Messi played a complete 90 minutes and scored in Miami’s recent 3-2 victory over New York City FC. He will now join the Argentina national team for the March international window, where they will face Mauritania on Friday and Zambia on March 31.
Originally, Argentina was scheduled to play Spain in the Finalissima in Qatar during March, but the match was canceled due to ongoing regional conflict.
Negotiations for a new date and venue involving CONMEBOL, UEFA, and other organizing committee members have not been successful.