Inter Miami manager Javier Mascherano confirmed that Lionel Messi’s recent absence from MLS matches was a planned rest, not due to injury. He emphasized the need to manage Messi’s workload due to the team’s busy schedule and his upcoming international duty with Argentina.
Inter Miami manager Javier Mascherano addressed the media ahead of Inter Miami’s Concacaf Champions League Round of 16 first leg match against Cavalier FC, clarifying speculation surrounding Lionel Messi‘s recent absence from MLS matches.
Mascherano confirmed that Messi’s absence was a planned rest, not due to injury, emphasizing a strategic approach to managing Messi’s workload to ensure peak fitness and prevent any potential injuries. He also discussed the challenges presented by their upcoming opponents, highlighting the confidence within the Cavalier FC squad.
Mascherano definitively stated that Messi is not injured, dispelling any speculation concerning the Argentinian star’s physical condition. He attributed Messi’s absence from the recent MLS match against Houston Dynamo to a strategic decision to manage his workload and avoid any potential injuries.
Mascherano emphasized that the team’s busy schedule and Messi’s upcoming international duty with Argentina necessitated this proactive approach to player management. This careful approach aims to maximize Messi’s contribution both domestically and internationally.
Mascherano’s approach to player management and injury prevention
Mascherano emphasized the importance of carefully managing Messi’s workload, explaining that some players may disagree with his management strategy, but that this approach is crucial to prevent more serious injuries.
He stated, “We’ve already had some injuries, and we don’t want to fall into the trap of not giving such an important player some rest, and then having him out for a month. We don’t want that. Some will agree, others won’t—that’s why they brought me in.” This proactive approach showcases his commitment to both short-term results and the long-term well-being of his players.
Mascherano remained non-committal regarding Messi’s starting status for the upcoming Concacaf Champions League match against Cavalier FC. He adopted a cautious approach, stating, “The probabilities are like the rest of the players. We’ll see what decision we make tomorrow. As of today, I still don’t have the team confirmed one hundred percent.” This measured response underscores his commitment to making a data-driven decision based on Messi’s overall fitness and readiness.
Cavalier FC’s confidence and the upcoming challenge
Cavalier FC coach Rudolph Speid expressed confidence in his team’s ability to compete against Inter Miami. He stated, “Every time people say that Cavalier isn’t good, that they’re lucky, and that the coach isn’t good, my players love being labeled as underdogs, and they always come out on top. ‘Can we come out on top against Messi and company?’ That’s the only thing they’re thinking about right now.”
This highlights the belief and motivation within the Cavalier FC camp despite facing a significantly more experienced and high-profile opponent. The underdog mentality could create an unexpected challenge for Inter Miami.
