ATLANTA — Inter Miami head coach Javier Mascherano has confirmed that star forward Lionel Messi is fit and ready to feature in the Club World Cup Group A clash against FC Porto on Thursday, quelling concerns raised by footage showing the Argentine clutching his leg during training.
Speaking to reporters ahead of the match at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Mascherano dismissed speculation around Messi’s fitness.
“Leo is fit, he trained, he completed the whole session,” said Mascherano. “He was touching his leg — sometimes people touch themselves — but there’s no problem. He will play tomorrow.”
The Miami coach also gave a positive update on Jordi Alba, who missed the side’s opening goalless draw against Al Ahly due to injury. While Mascherano hinted that Alba may start, he declined to confirm it outright: “Actually, I already know, but I won’t tell you,” he said with a smile.
Facing Portuguese giants Porto, Mascherano emphasized the importance of dominating possession against a team with consistent Champions League pedigree.
“We have players who feel more comfortable when they’re in control of the game through the ball,” he said. “Of course, we’re facing a team that also does that at a high level. But on the pitch, it’s 11 against 11 — we’ll try to shut down their strengths and expose their weaknesses.”
Inter Miami midfielder Sergio Busquets echoed Mascherano’s caution, acknowledging the difficulty of the task ahead.
“Porto compete every year at the highest level in Portugal and Europe,” said the former Barcelona man. “We’ll try to stay compact and solid. If we get chances, we have players who can finish — but we must defend well and aim for a clean sheet.”
Messi, 36, is expected to lead the line for the MLS side as they search for their first win of the tournament. A victory against Porto would significantly boost their chances of advancing from Group A.
