Inter Miami coach Javier Mascherano has reassured fans and commentators that Lionel Messi is fully fit ahead of the team‘s important FIFA Club World Cup match against FC Porto on Thursday, June 19. This update on Lionel Messi fitness update before Porto clash comes after concerns arose following a practice session where Messi was seen touching his leg.
Mascherano Addresses Injury Concerns Before Porto Encounter
During the recent practice session in Atlanta, Messi was observed lightly touching his leg, which triggered speculation about a possible injury ahead of the vital fixture against Primeira Liga leaders FC Porto. However, Mascherano refuted these worries, confirming that Messi trained fully and remains in good condition for the match.
“On the trip from Miami to Atlanta, I saw that he came out in some places, but Leo is fit, he trained, he completed the whole session. He was touching his leg, sometimes people touch themselves, but there’s no problem, he’s fit and obviously he will play tomorrow.”
—Javier Mascherano, Inter Miami Coach
Mascherano also spoke about the challenges expected in the game, acknowledging Porto as a strong opponent who plays with possession-based control, much like his own squad. He emphasized the importance of focusing on the strengths and weaknesses of both teams to secure a positive outcome.
“We have players who feel much more comfortable when they’re in possession, dominating, and having control of the game through the ball. Of course, we’re facing a team that is also used to doing that, who are a high-level side.
“But, on the pitch, we’re 11 against 11. We’ll try to shut down their strengths, expose their weaknesses and try to have a great game to get a good result.”
—Javier Mascherano, Inter Miami Coach
Teammates Recognize the Upcoming Battle Against Porto
Sergio Busquets, one of Messi’s teammates at Inter Miami, understands the level of competition they will encounter and highlighted the quality of Porto as a club accustomed to battling for league honors each season. His comments illustrate the seriousness and respect the players have for their opponents.
“They have very good players, they have reinforced, and we know that it will be very difficult. They are a team that compete every year for their league, against other great teams like Sporting and Benfica.
—Sergio Busquets, Inter Miami Midfielder
At present, Inter Miami stands sixth in the MLS Eastern Conference after 16 games, trailing Philadelphia by eight points but with a game in hand, intensifying the importance of strong performances on the global stage.
Lionel Messi’s Performance Record in the FIFA Club World Cup
Lionel Messi boasts an impressive history in the FIFA Club World Cup, having scored five goals, all during his time with Barcelona. His tally places him just two goals shy of the tournament’s highest scorers, Cristiano Ronaldo and Pele. Messi has also been part of three victorious campaigns in the competition’s modern format, in 2010, 2012, and 2016.
This year’s edition features an expanded lineup of 32 teams, and Messi, alongside fellow forward Luis Suarez—who also has five goals in Club World Cup history—hope to make a mark following a goalless draw against Egyptian side Al Ahly in Inter Miami’s opening game.
The upcoming match against Porto represents a significant opportunity for Messi to demonstrate his fitness and impact, reinforcing his value as a key figure for Inter Miami on an international stage.