“We’re not a team that chooses which competitions to play in; we’re obligated to compete in all of them,” stated Inter Miami coach Javier Mascherano following the team’s recent exit from the Concacaf Champions Cup.
Inter Miami, which has seen a meteoric rise since the arrival of Lionel Messi, was eliminated by Nashville SC in a two-leg knockout series. Messi managed to score the only goal for Inter Miami in this series, but it wasn’t enough to secure advancement.
Mascherano’s remarks highlight the team’s commitment to all competitions, especially after their impressive achievements in recent years, including winning the inaugural Leagues Cup in 2023, securing the Supporters’ Shield in 2024, and clinching the MLS Cup in 2025.
Despite these successes, the 2026 season has not started as hoped. With the exit from the Concacaf Champions Cup, the only new trophy opportunity for Inter Miami this year has vanished. Mascherano acknowledged the excitement surrounding the Champions League, stating, “Clearly, the Champions League is the only competition the club normally plays in that we’re missing, and it’s generating a lot of excitement for all of us.”
However, he also cautioned against letting this excitement turn into obsession, saying, “Now, what we can’t allow is for this to become an obsession. It’s one thing to be excited, another to be obsessed.” This sentiment reflects the balance the team must maintain as they navigate their future.
Inter Miami’s roster has seen changes as well, with Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba retiring before the 2026 season. The team has brought in Germán Berterame as a designated player, but he has yet to find the net in his first 467 minutes on the field.
The current uncertainty surrounding Inter Miami’s next competitive match adds to the pressure. Following their Concacaf exit, the team will need to adapt their strategy moving forward. Details remain unconfirmed.
As the season progresses, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how Inter Miami responds to this setback and what adjustments they will make to reclaim their competitive edge.
With Lionel Messi’s contract running through 2028, there is hope that the team can regroup and continue to build on their recent successes in the MLS.