Sophia
Inter Miami coach Javier Mascherano made headlines with a controversial decision to rest key stars, including Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez, Sergio Busquets, and Rodrigo De Paul, for their recent MLS clash against DC United. This bold rotation, while yielding a 1-1 draw, has sparked debate among fans and pundits alike, raising questions about squad depth and strategic priorities as the Herons navigate a demanding schedule.
A Calculated Risk: Resting the Superstars
The absence of Lionel Messi was already anticipated due to an ongoing injury concern. However, the decision to bench other pivotal figures like Suarez, Busquets, and De Paul came as a significant surprise. Mascherano’s rationale was clear: to give other squad members a chance and ensure the entire team is prepared for the rigors of a long season.
Speaking after the match, Mascherano explained, “We’ve played 41 games and we wanted to give other players a chance. We need the whole squad; it was a clear decision for us, and at the end of the game I think it was the right one.”
Impact of Substitutions: A Turning Point
Despite Mascherano’s confidence in his rotation, the team’s performance visibly improved after the introduction of the star players. The equalizer, scored by Baltasar Rodriguez, came directly from an assist by Rodrigo De Paul, who entered the game in the 56th minute alongside Rodriguez. This sequence highlights the undeniable impact of Inter Miami’s marquee talents.
“The feeling is that if we had played with the same intensity from the beginning, we could have won the game,” Mascherano conceded in the post-match press conference, acknowledging the difference made by his key players.
Messi’s Injury Status: A Lingering Concern
The decision to rest Messi stems from a cautious approach to his recovery. The Argentine talisman made a substitute appearance in the 3-1 win against LA Galaxy on August 16 but was notably absent from the Leagues Cup quarter-final on August 20, sparking concern among the Inter Miami faithful.
Mascherano’s technical assistant, who was sent off during the match, clarified, “We talked to Leo, we based it on how he feels, and we preferred not to take any chances, not to go back on his recovery and play it safe by not having him in the game.”
Messi’s impact this season has been undeniable, with 25 goals and 11 assists in 32 appearances across all competitions. His potential return for the highly anticipated Leagues Cup semi-final against Orlando City on August 27 remains uncertain, adding another layer of intrigue to Inter Miami’s crucial upcoming fixtures.
This strategic rotation by Mascherano underscores the delicate balance MLS teams face in managing player fatigue and injury risks, especially with star players. While the draw against DC United showcased the depth of the squad, it also highlighted the indispensable quality that Messi, Suarez, Busquets, and De Paul bring to the pitch.
