Frank Christian
On June 5 at Saputo Stadium, Lionel Messi and Inter Miami triumphantly defeated CF Montreal with a score of 4-1 in Major League Soccer.
Messi played the full 90 minutes, netting two goals and assisting another, marking Inter Miami’s return to MLS after their earlier exit from the Club World Cup, where they lost 4-0 to Paris Saint-Germain in the Round of 16.
Messi’s contract with Inter Miami is due to expire at the close of this year, though it does contain a provision for a one-year extension, which has not yet been activated.
Following the match against Montreal, Inter Miami’s head coach, Javier Mascherano, praised his team’s performance, stating,
“Overall, we delivered an excellent performance. It’s challenging to get back into league play after the Club World Cup, but our players managed it wonderfully. It was a fantastic night, and we secured three crucial points to help us refocus on MLS,” according to GOAL.
Mascherano also discussed his choice to have Messi, who recently turned 38, play the full match despite Inter Miami being comfortably ahead early in the second half.
The Argentine coach emphasized that the team aims to maximize the time spent with the eight-time Ballon d’Or recipient on the field.
What did Javier Mascherano say regarding Lionel Messi?
In the post-match press briefing, Mascherano articulated that Messi’s presence on the field is a significant advantage and insisted that the Barcelona icon will take to the pitch whenever he is healthy and desires to play.
“We must recognize that Leo finds joy in playing football. Whenever he is fit, he will want to participate – and we will support that. He provides us a substantial edge when he’s in the game, and naturally, we want to capitalize on it.”
This victory positions Inter Miami in sixth place in the MLS standings with 32 points from 17 matches. The team is slated to compete against the New England Revolution next on July 9 at Gillette Stadium in Massachusetts.
Updates on Inter Miami and Lionel Messi
- Javier Mascherano clarifies the goals for Messi-led Inter Miami following Club World Cup elimination
- Current developments on Lionel Messi and the Inter Miami contract status
- Former Argentine footballer suggests Lionel Messi may face more challenges in the 2026 World Cup
