Javier Mascherano reveals how Messi played for Inter Miami despite Argentina having a game just one day after MLS clash

Inter Miami head coach Javier Mascherano has disclosed that they had a conversation with Argentina before playing Lionel Messi in the clash against Atlanta United. The 38-year-old played for the MLS club just a day after a friendly game between the national side and Venezuela.

Talking to the media after the game, Mascherano said that they got the approval from Lionel Scaloni and the Argentina FA, and Messi was also looking to participate in the game. He added the club captain did not train with him, before scoring the brace and said:

“Simple. Yesterday, before the match, I spoke with Scaloni. He told me he wasn’t going to use him. Then I spoke with Leo, and that was it. (Scaloni) had no intention of playing him yesterday, and clearly, we saw the opportunity that since he wouldn’t feature against Venezuela, we could use him. Messi was willing. He’s a completely special player, and even though he didn’t train with us, he helped us win. He managed to score, which was also important."

Lionel Messi scored an amazing brace as Inter Miami ran 4-0 winners at home to Atlanta United. Jordi Alba and Luis Suarez scored between the Argentine's goal, as the MLS side remained four points behind the Philadelphia Union in the Eastern Conference.

Will Lionel Messi play against Puerto Rico?

Javier Mascherano has revealed that has no clarity if Lionel Messi will return to the Argentina national team this week. He thinks that the decision remains with Lionel Scaloni, as the MLS side do not have a match during the week and their next match in on Saturday.

He said:

“I have no idea because the match just ended. I haven’t spoken with the national team coach or anyone else yet. Messi had an outstanding performance. Physically, he’ll be at 100 percent. I wasn’t with him all week, because even though the national team trains here, I don’t like interfering or getting in the way. I just want to thank the Argentina national team for allowing us the chance to count on him."

Argentina have secured their berth in the 2026 FIFA World Cup and only have friendlies with the national team between now and the tournament in the United States, Mexico and Canada next summer.

Meanwhile, Messi remains in talks with Inter Miami over a extension, as his contract expires at the end of the season.