Lionel Messi will take part in Inter Miami CF’s Major League Soccer season opener this Saturday night as the team faces Los Angeles FC, ending speculation about his fitness after a recent injury. The Argentine forward, who plays a pivotal role for the reigning MLS champions, is expected to feature prominently in this highly awaited match.
Coach Mascherano Affirms Messi’s Readiness and Team Lineup
Inter Miami head coach Javier Mascherano assured fans on Friday that Messi has trained alongside the squad all week and is fully prepared.
“Messi is fine; he’s been training at the same level as the rest of the team all week,”
Mascherano said.
“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.”
The coach also confirmed that all players traveling to California, including new Designated Player Germán Berterame and recent signing Tadeo Allende, will be available for selection.
Injury and Recovery: How Messi Returned to Full Training
Messi’s involvement was uncertain after suffering a left hamstring muscle strain on February 7 during a preseason friendly against Barcelona SC. Although he started the game, he was substituted at the 58th minute to prevent aggravating the injury. Inter Miami took precautionary steps by rescheduling their last preseason match against Independiente del Valle from February 13 to February 26, allowing Messi crucial additional recovery time. Since then, he has fully rejoined team activities, showing positive signs of recuperation.
Anticipation Builds for a Highly Competitive Matchup
Coach Mascherano highlighted the quality of both teams competing in this season opener, stressing their status as top contenders in the league.
“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 commented. Mascherano also explained his tactical approach:
“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.”
Inter Miami’s Challenging Campaign Ahead
As defending MLS champions, Inter Miami CF enters the 2026 season following their 2025 MLS Cup triumph over the Vancouver Whitecaps. The team faces a demanding schedule that includes the MLS regular season as well as international tournaments like the Concacaf Champions Cup, Leagues Cup, and Campeones Cup. With Messi fit and focused, expectations are high as the club looks to build on its recent success and manage the rigors of multiple competitions.
