As Inter Miami’s pre-season draws to a close Javier Mascherano’s men will be looking to continue their unbeaten run against Orlando City FC.
The Herons have faced sides from across the Americas including Club America, Sporting San Miguelito and Universitario.
Despite being somewhat of a minutes risk in the pre-season Lionel Messi has been able to wow fans during every game, adding two goals along the way.
However, following a red card tackle which he received in the 3-1 win over Sporting San Miguelito there were some doubts about his participation in further games.
Mascherano provides positive Messi news
With the MLS season just two weeks away, taking any risks on the health of the 2024 MLS MVP, Messi seems a little brave.
While paying fans will be desperate to catch a glimpse of Messi, the star’s bodyguard has spoken out on how the players need more protection from fans who run onto the pitch.
Messi is regularly targeted by adoring fans, hardly surprising considering he is one of the best players in the world, and the friendly against Orlando City will likely see more attempts made to try and reach the World Cup winner, especially not he is expected to be playing.
The Argentine played 66 minutes against Club America in Las Vegas, 73 minutes against Universitario in Peru, 77 minutes against San Miguelito in Panama and 63 minutes against Olimpia in Honduras last Saturday.
Speaking on Messi’s chances of playing against Orlando City, Mascherano told the Miami Herald: “It is important the players arrive at the game in Kansas [City] in rhythm, we will manage minutes accordingly.”
He went on to praise Messi’s pre-season form saying: “The same as always. I don’t know any version of Leo that isn’t superior. The years keep passing and he continues to surprise us with his level and his desire to compete.”
Messi’s attacking help
While the arrival of Luis Suarez has certainly helped take some of the goal-scoring burden away from Messi, the club were still in need of some attacking reinforcements.
Both Messi and Suarez finished as the club’s joint top scorers last season with 20 regular season goals each.
However, relying on their ageing stars to play regularly given the gruelling MLS schedule which involves considerable air miles is unrealistic.
This season, Mascherano has thankfully given them some attacking support in the form of Tadeo Allende and Fafa Picault.
Inter Miami have also been closely linked with Argentine youth star Mateo Silvetti. There is no doubt the Herons have the firepower to put New York City FC to the sword in their opening MLS game.