Despite raising concerns during training, Lionel Messi is fit and ready to play in Inter Miami’s Club World Cup clash against Porto on Thursday, head coach Javier Mascherano confirmed.
Footage from Wednesday’s training session showed Messi briefly touching his left leg, sparking speculation about a potential injury. However, Mascherano moved quickly to reassure fans and reporters.
“I saw the video after our trip from Miami to Atlanta, but there’s no issue. Leo is fine—he completed the full session,” Mascherano told reporters. “Sometimes players feel something and touch themselves out of instinct, but there’s no problem. He’s fit and of course, he’ll play tomorrow.”
Mascherano also confirmed that Jordi Alba, another of Messi’s former Barcelona teammates, is available for selection after missing Inter Miami’s goalless draw with Al Ahly due to injury.
“We’ll decide whether he starts or not,” Mascherano said with a smile. “Actually, I’ve already decided—but I’m not telling you.”
Looking ahead to the challenge against Portuguese giants Porto, Mascherano emphasized the importance of possession in Thursday’s Group A fixture, which will take place in Atlanta’s Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
“We’re a team that thrives on having the ball—our players feel more comfortable controlling the game through possession,” the coach said. “Of course, we’re facing a high-caliber side that’s also accustomed to dominating matches, but it’s 11 versus 11 on the field. We’ll aim to neutralize their strengths, exploit their weaknesses, and play a great game.”
Inter Miami midfielder Sergio Busquets, another former Barcelona star and World Cup winner with Spain, acknowledged the difficulty of the task ahead.
“Porto are a strong side with a lot of quality players. They’ve strengthened and they’re always competing at the top level in Portugal, alongside clubs like Sporting and Benfica,” said Busquets.
“Our goal is to stay compact, defend well, and work together as a unit. If we can keep a clean sheet and take our chances, we have the individual talent to make a difference.”
