Despite the wave of optimism that swept across Inter Miami fans when Javier Mascherano was appointed as a replacement for Tata Martino ahead of the 2025 season, things are failing to gel for the side from Florida.

Last night’s tie in San Jose saw the ‘Herons’ claim only one win in their past six outings, with the Florida team conceding 17 goals in these matches. The team recently exited the CONCACAF Champions Cup after losing both home and away legs in the semi-final against Vancouver Whitecaps.

Following the recent 4-1 defeat to Minnesota (Messi’s heaviest loss in an Inter Miami jersey), Mascherano was candid and admitted that the ‘Loons’ were tactically superior: “Unfortunately, it is a very tough loss for us, because we knew Minnesota could exploit transitions and set pieces, and they did exactly that, which concerns me,” said the first-year boss after the game.

“It’s due to inattention – a lack of focus that we can’t afford in matches like this.”

Messi concerns

Inter Miami’s Achilles heel last season was a leaky defense, as the team lost momentum after winning the Supporters’ Shield. Despite having one of the youngest rosters in the league, the team relies heavily on veterans like Messi (37), Suarez (38), and Busquets (36).

While Messi can still produce moments of brilliance on the pitch, injuries continue to affect his availability for the MLS side. This is the Argentine’s final contracted season with the team, and he has stated that his future playing depends on his physical condition, as he hopes to defend Argentina’s World Cup title next summer at the tournament in the US, Canada, and Mexico.

His frustration was evident at the end of the 3-3 draw in San Jose last night, when the player appeared angry and upset over a refereeing decision. His exasperation escalated after the game, but a timely intervention from ‘Quakes coach Bruce Arena diffused the situation and potentially prevented a red card for Messi.