Inter Miami will be ready to make their mark on the FIFA Club World Cup when they make their tournament debut next summer.
The Herons’ Club World Cup group contains some tough opponents, including the most successful team in African history.
Despite the exciting draw, the club’s co-owner Jorge Mas was left disappointed after not drawing Real Madrid.
Superstar Lionel Messi will be looking to extend his impressive group stage record, the Argentine’s contract situation is still unresolved at Inter Miami heading into the new season.
New manager Javier Mascherano will be looking to tie Messi down to a new deal and the boss will be looking forward to facing one certain Club World Cup opponent.
Mascherano left impressed by Al-Ahly
Inter Miami will open the Club World Cup next summer against Egyptian giants Al-Ahly, a side that Mascherano has previously praised.
Speaking in 2021 the Argentine explained how the club highlighted Egyptian football’s quick development.
During a FIFA Legends press conference, Mascherano told the media (via BBC Sport): “I was particularly impressed by Al Ahly against Bayern Munich because they were facing a giant opponent. It’s clear, of course, that one team was controlling the match, but I think that Al Ahly also competed at the same level.
“They left an impression of how Egyptian football developed, and it is evident that they play on the highest level to have reached this tournament.”
Mascherano also praised Mo Salah who has been linked with a move to Inter Miami, saying that he took Egyptian football to ‘a new level’.
Mascherano’s impressive Club World Cup record
While Mascherano has never experienced the Club World Cup as a manager he does have experience playing in the competition for Barcelona.
Mascherano played in the competition in the 2011/12 season and again in the 2015/16 season.
Despite never scoring a goal, or even getting an assist Mascherano played a key part in helping his side to success in the tournament.
In the two times he has entered the Club World Cup Mascherano has left with the trophy on both occasions.
His side defeated Brazilian club Santos 4–0 in 2011 and then Mascherano helped repeat the feat in 2015 when beating Argentinian side River Plate 3-0 in the final.
Despite Mascherano playing down the chances of an MLS title fans will be hoping he continues his fine form in the Club World Cup.