Inter Miami head coach Javier Mascherano has made it clear that Lionel Messi will remain central to the club’s plans in the run-up to the 2026 World Cup, insisting the team cannot afford to rest its captain during the decisive phase of the season.

Speaking after Miami’s 3-2 win over New York City FC at Yankee Stadium, where Messi scored and completed the full 90 minutes, Mascherano underlined that the forward’s best form comes when he is consistently on the pitch, not protected on the sidelines.

“We try to look after him as much as possible. We know he is the kind of player who feels most comfortable when he is out on the pitch playing, and what that does to his body,” Mascherano told reporters via videoconference while serving a one-match touchline ban.

The coach stressed that Messi’s presence is non-negotiable if Miami is to meet its ambitions in Major League Soccer. “Clearly, he is a vital player for us if we are to achieve our objectives. Quite frankly, without him, it would be impossible for us to reach the goals we have set for ourselves.”

Messi is now joining Argentina for the international window, with the world champions scheduled to face Mauritania and Zambia. His long-term international future, however, remains unresolved. The 36-year-old has repeatedly said he will decide on playing at the 2026 World Cup based on his physical condition and how he feels closer to the tournament in North America.

Mascherano acknowledged that reality but argued that open communication, rather than blanket rest, will guide how Miami manages its star. “We understand that he is reaching the final stretch before the World Cup, but many of the decisions we make regarding him are reached by mutual agreement. We have to keep the lines of communication open, constantly checking in on his physical sensations and how he is feeling.”

With Inter Miami knocked out of the Concacaf Champions Cup by Nashville SC, the club’s calendar has eased. Mascherano noted that Miami now faces mostly one match per week in MLS, a rhythm he believes allows Messi to play regularly without being overloaded.

“Any time we are able to count on his participation, it is a welcome boost for the team,” Mascherano said, framing Messi not as a veteran to be shielded, but as the indispensable engine of Miami’s season and, potentially, one last World Cup push.