Messi‘s Inter Miami Appearance Approved by Argentina Coaching Staff, Reveals Mascherano
FORT LAUDERDALE, FL – In a surprising move, Lionel Messi opted to feature for Inter Miami against Atlanta United this weekend despite being called up for Argentina’s kind against Venezuela. Javier Mascherano, currently assisting the Argentinian national team, revealed the decision was a collaborative one, stemming from a conversation with head coach Lionel Scaloni and Messi himself.
Mascherano explained that Scaloni informed Messi he wouldn’t be utilized in the Venezuela match, opening the door for the star forward to play for his club. “It’s quite simple: yesterday before Argentina’s match I spoke with him and he told me he wasn’t going to use him, he was going to release him,” Mascherano stated. He then consulted Messi directly, receiving his approval to play for Inter Miami.”I spoke with Leo so he could play today [Saturday] and that’s all there is to it. Yesterday the coach had no intention of playing him as he wanted to see other things, as he said.”
Messi delivered a stellar performance, scoring two goals and providing an assist in Inter Miami’s 4-0 victory over Atlanta United. Mascherano emphasized Messi’s impact, noting, “He helped us win, he managed to score, which was important for him. With leo, everything is easier.”
When questioned about Messi’s future plans – whether he would rejoin the national team or remain with Inter Miami – Mascherano admitted he had no immediate information.”I have no idea because the match just ended, we have Sunday and Monday off, so I haven’t spoken to the national team coach or anyone yet. if he gets in touch with us or the Federation, we’ll see.”
Looking ahead to the 2026 World Cup, Mascherano stressed the importance of keeping Messi healthy and happy. “Next year feels very far away. Taking care of Leo means letting him play, he’s happy on the pitch. We try to talk with him all the time.During the season, when he’s had situations where he didn’t feel well, we’ve tried to protect him. There’s no point in having the best player in the history of this sport sidelined by injury.”
