Mascherano Addresses Busquets Retirement Rumors
Javier Mascherano, the head coach of Inter Miami, addressed rumors surrounding Sergio Busquets’ potential retirement at the conclusion of the 2025 MLS season, clarifying that “nothing is official” at this moment. During a press conference on Tuesday, Mascherano stated,
No, I don’t have an opinion on that. I’ve seen the reports, just like everyone else, but there has been no official word on the matter. I don’t ask players about rumors. What is certain is that Sergio is entirely focused on this season and our team’s goals.
Busquets’ Future with Inter Miami
Busquets, whose contract is set to expire after the current season, has not engaged in any discussions regarding a potential extension. Earlier, he acknowledged that Inter Miami is the final chapter of his career, yet he maintained a level of ambiguity about his future. In remarks made in August, he indicated,
When I left Barcelona, I made a decision not to return to Spain or Europe. I’m at an age where I’m closer to retirement than beginning anew. However, there’s still nothing definitive about a renewal or retirement, and when the time comes to make an announcement, I will, and we can have a deeper discussion then.
If Busquets opts for a contract renewal, his status could transform due to the league’s roster policies. Presently, he accounts for one of the three Designated Player slots on the roster, which will be occupied by Rodrigo De Paul starting in 2026, given his contract terms. The likely trio of Designated Players for the upcoming season would then consist of De Paul, Jordi Alba, and Lionel Messi. Busquets commented on the situation, stating,
It’s clear that if I were to extend my contract, my status as a DP would not apply because all three designated positions are currently filled.
Upcoming Matches and Player Updates
As of now, Mascherano remains focused on the upcoming matches, including a midweek showdown against New York City FC. Luis Suárez is also expected to return to the team after serving a three-game suspension following an incident during the Leagues Cup Final against the Seattle Sounders on August 31. Mascherano reflected on Suárez’s eagerness to get back on the pitch, saying,
Luis has a history of playing consistently, so I can imagine he is anxious to play again. However, we have not made any specific plans for him. He has been training continuously with us. Given his workload, the break may have been beneficial.
Additionally, Mascherano noted the importance of De Paul as the season comes to a close, highlighting the Argentine’s acclimatization to the team despite arriving without prior pre-season conditioning.
When he first joined us, he hadn’t had adequate rest or pre-season training, which made those initial games challenging. But now that he has been with us for over a month and participated in several matches, he seems fit.
Mascherano acknowledged the challenge of upcoming schedules, noting the intense demands ahead with multiple games in a tight timeframe, stating,
It’s crucial for us to manage his minutes wisely.
As Inter Miami prepares to face NYCFC, they will follow up with a trip to Canada to take on Toronto FC on September 27.
