Messi Declared Fit for Inter Miami’s MLS Opener Against LAFC
Los Angeles, CA – – Inter Miami CF will have captain Lionel Messi available for their MLS season opener against Los Angeles FC, head coach Javier Mascherano confirmed Friday. The news provides a significant boost to the defending champions as they begin their title defense at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum.
Messi’s participation had been in question following a muscle strain in his left hamstring sustained during a preseason friendly against Barcelona SC on . The injury forced him to leave the pitch in the 58th minute and prompted concerns about his availability for the start of the MLS season.
“Messi is fine; he’s been training at the same level as the rest of the team all week,” Mascherano stated. “He’s been doing well and has had very positive feelings. So, he’s going away well prepared, just like the rest of the team.”
Initial projections had suggested a potential recovery period of around two weeks, but Messi’s return to full training on alleviated those fears. The club subsequently rescheduled a preseason friendly against Independiente del Valle, originally slated for , to to prioritize Messi’s recovery, and preparation.
A Difficult Test Awaits Against LAFC
Inter Miami faces a challenging opening match against LAFC, a team Mascherano acknowledged as a strong contender. “It’s clear, though, that they are two great teams, and of course, given the caliber of their players and what they represent in the league, they are two teams that, on paper, should be contenders,” he said.
Mascherano outlined his ideal approach to the game, emphasizing control and preventing LAFC’s quick transitions. “You always imagine the ideal game, and the ideal game for us would be the complete opposite of that, a back-and-forth affair. It would be about controlling the game, having long spells of possession, and preventing Los Angeles from making transitions because they need to get forward quickly.”
Berterame and Allende Also Available
Messi won’t be the only new face available for Inter Miami. Designated Player Germán Berterame, who recently received approval for his work visa, and Tadeo Allende, now a permanent fixture with the club, are also set to feature. Mascherano confirmed that “all players who traveled with the team” to California will be available for selection.
Berterame’s arrival adds another attacking threat to Inter Miami’s roster, having already shown promising chemistry with Messi during preseason. The pair connected effectively in the friendly against Barcelona SC, with Messi scoring the opener and assisting Berterame for the second goal.
Reigning Champions Begin Title Defense
Inter Miami enters the season as the reigning MLS champions, having defeated the Vancouver Whitecaps in the MLS Cup. The team will also compete in the Concacaf Champions Cup, Leagues Cup, and Campeones Cup, adding to an already demanding schedule.
The club’s success last season, fueled by Messi’s arrival and impactful performances, has raised expectations for . Maintaining that level of performance while navigating multiple competitions will be a key challenge for Mascherano and his squad.
Saturday’s match against LAFC represents the first step in that journey, and with Messi declared fit, Inter Miami will be looking to start their title defense with a statement victory. The game at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum promises to be a compelling clash between two of the league’s top teams, setting the stage for an exciting MLS season.
