Leo is happiest when he’s playing football’ – Inter Miami’s Javier Mascherano defends decision to play Messi 90 minutes in 4-1 win against CF Montreal
Here’s what happened—and what Mascherano said—after Inter Miami’s 4‑1 win over CF Montréal on July 5, 2025:
1. Messi’s full‑game brilliance 🐐
– Lionel Messi scored a stunning brace, including a solo run weaving past four defenders, and provided a key assist. His second goal came from a breathtaking individual effort in the 61st minute
– It was Messi’s first MLS match back after the Club World Cup exit to PSG (0‑4), and he’s now tallied 12 goals in just 14 MLS appearances this season
2. Mascherano explains the full‑minutes decision
Head coach Javier Mascherano—who also played alongside Messi in Argentina and at Barcelona—justified keeping Messi on the pitch for all 90 minutes:
“We have to understand that Leo is happiest when he’s playing football. Every time he’s fit, he’s going to want to play—and we want to use that advantage as much as possible.”
He emphasized that Messi performs best when engaged and sharp—and that the team benefits greatly from his presence.
3. Context and impact
– This was Inter Miami’s first MLS match back after nearly a month of rest (due to Club World Cup commitments)
– The 4‑1 result gives them a momentum boost, though they still trail the Eastern Conference leaders, sitting around 6th place with 32 points from 17 games
– Mascherano also highlighted the intense fixture schedule ahead and the importance of smart rotation—but insisted Messi will play whenever he’s fully fit
In short:
Messi’s magic returned swiftly after the Club World Cup—his brace and assist sealed the performance. Mascherano’s choice to play him full-time was rooted in trust: when Messi is healthy, he thrives and Miami thrives with him.