Lionel Messi’s future at Inter Miami, discussed by head coach Javier Mascherano

Javier Mascherano spoke about the potential contract renewal of Lionel Messi with Inter Miami.

The past few weeks have been challenging for Inter Miami, with poor performances and negative results knocking them out of the Concacaf Champions Cup and complicating their position in Major League Soccer. On top of that, speculation has grown over the future of Lionel Messi, whose contract expires at the end of the year. Head coach Javier Mascherano addressed the issue.

“As for Leo’s renewal, I’m not the one who has to decide. There’s a sporting department that’s in charge of answering those questions,” Mascherano said during a press conference on Friday, as shared by AS USA Latino on X.

“As a coach, what I want is for him to renew as soon as possible, for the news to come out as soon as possible—mostly to give peace of mind to the fans and everyone around the club,” the coach added. “We hope to have good news in the short term. But I’m not the sporting director, and I’m not involved in the negotiations, so I have no idea.”

Messi joined Inter Miami in July 2023 and is under contract with the club through December, when the current MLS season ends. Other key squad members, including Sergio Busquets and Luis Suarez, are in the same situation, while Jordi Alba agreed to a contract extension just a few weeks ago.

Mascherano addresses Inter Miami’s struggles

Inter Miami have lost five of their last seven matches, prompting sharp criticism—particularly of Mascherano—for the team’s poor form. The coach acknowledged that the situation has led him to have conversations with his players, including Messi, in an effort to find solutions.

“I talk with Leo every day. And I haven’t only spoken with him, but with many of the guys,” Javier said about the past few weeks. “But not just right now—you always need feedback from the players about what they’re feeling on the field.”

Mascherano then elaborated on his approach to leading the squad: “Coaching a team isn’t just about imposing your own ideas no matter what. You need feedback from the players. We propose ideas, but we need them to be comfortable because they’re the ones playing.”

What’s next for Inter Miami

Inter Miami face a tough stretch with three MLS matches in just one week. This Saturday, they visit Philadelphia Union at Subaru Park for Matchday 15 of the league. Next Wednesday, they host FC Montreal, and three days later, they’ll welcome Columbus Crew to Chase Stadium.

After those three matches, Javier Mascherano and his squad will be able to shift their full focus to the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup. Inter Miami will have two weeks to prepare before kicking off the tournament with the opening match on Saturday, June 14, against Al Ahly SC at Hard Rock Stadium.

From: bolavip.com