Inter Miami head coach Javier Mascherano strongly rejects the notion that the team is better off without star striker Luis Suárez. Mascherano insists every player on the roster is crucial for their success as they prepare to face FC Cincinnati in the Eastern Conference semifinal.
Although Inter Miami won their decisive playoff match against Nashville SC 4-0 without Suárez due to his one-game suspension for violent conduct, Mascherano argues this does not diminish the Uruguayan’s value. “We have played 55 games this season, winning 31, and the majority with Luis Suárez on the field,” Mascherano stated.
Mascherano emphasizes that pointing to any single player as dispensable would be disrespectful, especially considering Suárez’s impact throughout the season. The striker contributed 10 goals and 10 assists in 28 regular-season matches, helping Miami secure third place in the Eastern Conference.
The coach also highlighted the dynamic nature of playoff soccer, noting that each opponent demands different tactics. He said, “The team needs everyone to keep advancing… there are no two games alike; Cincinnati is not Nashville.” This adaptability underscores his strategy to make decisions based on the specific challenges posed by each match.
Miami now travels to Cincinnati’s TQL Stadium aiming to reach the Eastern Conference final for the first time in club history. Mascherano, however, downplays the hype around the game’s significance. “We’ve spent the entire season saying that each new game is more important than the last,” he said.
Focusing on preparation rather than the fear of losing, Mascherano praised the team’s form and atmosphere. He added, “It’s not in my head to not win. The team has reached this part of the season in the best way… in the day to day and the atmosphere the team has.”
Inter Miami’s mostly healthy squad recently welcomed back Lionel Messi and Rodrigo De Paul after their international duty. Ian Fray remains a doubtful starter due to a knock sustained with the Jamaican national team.
As Miami faces this critical playoff hurdle, Mascherano’s message is clear: the team’s strength lies in unity and maximizing every player’s contribution—including Luis Suárez.
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