Mascherano Dismisses Claims of Improved Performance Without Suárez
Javier Mascherano, the head coach of Inter Miami, firmly dismissed any claims that his team plays more effectively in the absence of Uruguayan forward Luis Suárez. As the team gears up to face FC Cincinnati in the Eastern Conference semifinals on Sunday, Mascherano emphasized the importance of having each of his roster players contributing to the club’s success.
Team Performance and Suárez’s Contributions
Inter Miami successfully secured their place in the knockout stage of the MLS playoffs after a dominant 4-0 victory against Nashville SC in the final match of their three-game series, during which Suárez was sidelined due to a one-game suspension for violent conduct. Despite Suárez’s absence, Mascherano noted that the team had achieved significant victories throughout the season, winning approximately 31 of their 55 games with Suárez actively involved in the majority of them.
“It’s not my approach to single out any player; doing so would undermine Suárez’s career and contributions,” Mascherano said during a Saturday press conference.
He reiterated that the team requires every member to reach their collective goals, especially as they prepare to confront Cincinnati, who present a different challenge compared to Nashville.
Suárez’s Impact and Team Readiness
This season, Suárez has been pivotal for Miami, netting 10 goals and providing 10 assists in 28 regular-season appearances, helping the team finish third in the Eastern Conference standings. As Inter Miami prepares to make their inaugural appearance in the Eastern Conference finals, Mascherano remained focused on the task at hand, dismissing the notion that this match holds more significance than previous high-stakes games the team has faced.
“We’ve consistently been in important matches throughout the season, such as the Concacaf Champions League semifinal and the Club World Cup,” he remarked, maintaining a mindset geared towards winning.
Reflecting confidence in his team’s preparedness, he highlighted the positive atmosphere and high level of training leading up to the game.
Squad Health and Player Updates
As for the squad’s health, Inter Miami enters the semifinal with relatively few injuries, although there are concerns about Ian Fray, who may miss the match due to a knock sustained while on international duty with Jamaica. Meanwhile, Lionel Messi and Rodrigo De Paul have successfully returned from their friendly with Argentina, rejoining full training as they aim to further solidify the team’s chances in the playoffs.
