The uncertainty is over for South Florida fans and soccer lovers around the world.
After days of speculation about Lionel Messi’s physical condition, it was his own compatriot and technical director, Javier Mascherano, who broke the news that everyone was waiting for: the “10” is ready to take the field this weekend.
Messi overcomes preseason injury
In a crowded press conference ahead of Inter Miami’s highly anticipated opener against Los Angeles FC (LAFC), Mascherano cleared up any doubts about the left hamstring strain that Messi suffered during the recent friendly against Barcelona SC in Ecuador.
“Leo is fine, he trained all week with the group, he has been doing well. He has had a good feeling, so he arrives well, prepared like the rest of the team,” said the Argentinean tactician with a smile of tranquility.
A debut with a taste of revenge
Messi’s return could not be on a more demanding stage.
Inter Miami begins its title defense against one of the league’s most dangerous opponents: LAFC. Mascherano knows that counting on Leo is vital, especially against a team that does not forgive mistakes.
“LAFC is a team that if you let them play they will hurt you a lot. They are a team that looks very strong from the start. We are prepared, we respect their hierarchy, but we are the champions of this league,” said “El Jefecito”, making it clear that the team’s mentality is still to dominate the continent.
Messi: The record man is looking for more
Last season, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner set the bar high with 29 goals and 19 assists, leading the “Herons” to their first-ever crown.
This 2026, in World Cup year, the management of his minutes will be key, but Mascherano insists that Messi’s commitment to the club is total from the first minute of the tournament.
The “almost” signing of Mascherano
As a curious detail of the day, the coach revealed an anecdote that few remembered: his personal bond with the franchise before becoming a coach.
“I’ve been an Inter Miami player for a few hours and then I didn’t end up playing,” he confessed with a chuckle, before praising the growth of MLS, calling it a league that has surpassed all his expectations because of its level of competitiveness.
“MLS is a league that now that I know it much more in depth, it is a very competitive league, very good, very nice, it has far exceeded my expectations, both my coaching staff and I feel very comfortable.”
Can Messi kick off the season with a goal against LAFC?
The table is set for Inter Miami to show why they remain the top title contenders under the guidance of the Mascherano-Messi duo.
Messi suffered a muscle strain in his left hamstring during a recent match against Barcelona SC in Ecuador.
Filed under: Messi overcomes preseason injury
