Javier Mascherano speaks out after Messi’s suspension and strongly criticizes MLS decision

Javier Mascherano addressed the media following Inter Miami’s 0–0 draw against FC Cincinnati in MLS play. The head coach spoke candidly on several key issues, including Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba’s suspension for missing the All-Star Game, the high-profile signing of Rodrigo De Paul, and his concerns with refereeing decisions.

Mascherano didn’t hold back when asked about the league’s decision:
“I have my opinion on what happened, and I shared it yesterday. I didn’t come here to criticize MLS or to change the rules. We’ve adapted to what happened—even if I completely disagree with the decision.

“That said, I think the team played a great game. We clearly deserved the win. Now it’s time to look ahead and keep going.”

He went even further, questioning the inconsistency of the league’s response:
“What strikes me is how one day something is said, and the next, a different decision is made. We all heard the reasoning—that it was understandable due to the number of games he [Messi] had played. We’re not asking for special treatment. But let me ask you this: what if tonight’s game had been away? Would they have insisted Leo sit out? Because when it’s about filling stadiums and selling tickets, nobody complains. The issue is this game happened to be at home—there’s the difference.”

Rodrigo De Paul’s arrival

One of the biggest headlines was the official signing of World Cup winner Rodrigo De Paul, introduced at Chase Stadium. Mascherano didn’t hide his excitement:

“Rodrigo joining this club is absolutely historic. A World Cup champion, arriving at his peak—this speaks volumes about the ambition of this organization. It shows the desire to keep growing, to continue building up this league—even when it’s often mistreated or underestimated. I’m thrilled with the signing. I truly believe he’ll be a huge help for us, and I wish him all the best in this new chapter.”

Referee concerns and match analysis

Mascherano also voiced frustration with the lack of penalty calls:
“For a team that scores as much as we do—maybe the most in the league, or at least top five—it’s strange that after 22 games, we haven’t been awarded a single penalty. And we enter the box a lot. Zero penalties. Just think about that.”

As for the match itself, he praised the team’s resilience:
“The result wasn’t good, because we deserved to win based on our performance—not the context. We’ve played a ton of games in a short span, with very little rest. We rotated where needed, and the players responded. We always try to analyze the football, and I think we did enough to take all three points.”

Inter Miami now shifts its focus to the Leagues Cup, with their opening match scheduled for Wednesday, July 30 at 8:30 PM ET against Atlas. Rodrigo De Paul could potentially make his debut in that match.