Inter Miami CF head coach Javier Mascherano praised his team for their unity and resilience during a challenging 4-2 victory over Montreal at Chase Stadium on Wednesday night. Despite facing a difficult first half marked by three injuries, the players came together to secure the win.
Defenders Gonzalo Luján and Jordi Alba had to exit the game early due to muscular issues, forcing Mascherano to adapt his strategy. Tomás Avilés replaced Luján in the 12th minute, but he too was injured, leaving the team needing to make quick adjustments. “In the case of Gonzalo and Jordi, it was something muscular, that tomorrow or in these days we see what the scope is,” Mascherano stated. “As for Avilés, it was the ankle, it became swollen after being stepped on. He could’ve perhaps continued, but we didn’t risk it.”
Mascherano emphasized the importance of teamwork in light of these setbacks, suggesting that the adversity could strengthen the squad: “This shows that the team is united and they want to get out of this situation… these situations end up strengthening us as a group.”
Looking ahead, Inter Miami is scheduled to play the Columbus Crew on Saturday, leaving little time for Luján and Alba to recover. The team is already dealing with other injuries, including Yannick Bright, David Ruiz, Drake Callender, and Baltasar Rodríguez. Bright is currently sidelined with a hamstring injury, and his return date remains uncertain.
Mascherano has previously highlighted the need for improved squad depth, particularly as the team prepares for the Club World Cup on June 14. He has communicated to the club the specific positions that need reinforcement, especially following the sale of players like Robert Taylor and Julian Gressel.
In light of upcoming competitions, reports indicate that Inter Miami is considering signing Club América winger Brian Rodríguez, further emphasizing the urgency for the team to bolster its roster.
Overall, while injuries present immediate challenges, Mascherano’s focus on teamwork and the club’s proactive approach to strengthening the squad gives fans reason to be optimistic for Inter Miami’s ongoing season.