After Inter Miami’s 1-0 victory over Charlotte FC, coach Javier Mascherano discussed his failed strategy to give Lionel Messi playing time.
Inter Miami supporters were left disappointed during the MLS match against Charlotte FC when Lionel Messi remained seated on the bench. Following the team’s victory, coach Javier Mascherano elaborated on the unsuccessful plan to involve Messi in the game.
Messi had been omitted from Inter Miami’s lineup in the previous two matches due to fatigue stemming from a busy season start. For the match against Charlotte, he was listed on the bench, leading fans to chant his name, eager to see him play.
Despite the anticipation, Messi did not enter the match, leading to further frustration among fans. In his post-match press conference, Mascherano explained how the initial plan to bring Messi into the game fell through: “In Leo’s case, the reality is that we had planned to give him some minutes at some point during the match.”
The coach noted that goalkeeper Oscar Ustari’s red card disrupted those plans. “But given how the game unfolded, with one man down and considering how long he’s been without playing, we believed the best decision was to preserve him and not take any risks in that situation,” Mascherano admitted.
Ustari’s dismissal in the 38th minute forced Mascherano to adjust by bringing on goalkeeper Rocco Rios Novo. In the second half, he had limited options from the bench, primarily relying on defensive players such as Ian Fray, David Martinez, Federico Redondo, and David Ruiz.
With Inter Miami holding a narrow 1-0 lead against Charlotte, there was minimal opportunity for Messi to make an impact in a match where the team recorded just one shot on target — Tadeo Allende’s goal — and maintained only 29% possession after halftime.
When will Messi return for Inter Miami?
Inter Miami’s next fixture is on Thursday in the second leg of the CONCACAF Champions Cup round of 16 against Cavalier SC. Holding a 2-0 advantage from the first leg, Messi’s availability remains uncertain, particularly due to the team’s travel to Jamaica for the match.
If Messi is rested for that game, his next potential appearance could be the following week in an MLS match against Atlanta United. This match is scheduled just before the international break, during which Messi has been called up to represent Argentina — a commitment he prioritizes.
