'One of us is failing' - Inter Miami manager Mascherano urges players to step up and help Messi

Mascherano's team secured a resounding 5-1 victory over the Columbus Crew, with Messi being the best player in the game.

Messi delivered another stellar performance, scoring two goals and providing two assists in the dominant win.

This contribution brings his MLS season tally to 10 goals in 13 matches. Tadeo Allende, Luis Suárez, and Fafa Picault also found the back of the net for the Herons.

Speaking after the game, as reported by Goal, the manager urged his players to always be at their best to help Messi perform.

"We try to help him in every way we can, both the players and us as staff," Mascherano stated. "He is the best player to ever play this sport, and we need to understand that when he doesn't stand out, it's because one of us is failing. Over time, as a teammate and now as a coach, I continue to enjoy the things he does on the field."

The victory marks Inter Miami's second consecutive win, propelling them to third place in the Eastern Conference with 29 points, just five points behind leaders Philadelphia Union.

This positive streak follows a challenging period in April and May, where the team secured only one win in eight matches.

Looking ahead to the Club World Cup, Mascherano stressed the team's focus on building around Messi. "We want to build everything around him so he can shine," he explained.

"The Club World Cup is a single-group format, and the first match will be important because it sets the tone. We know the level is higher than what we've encountered in CONCACAF and in MLS."

Inter Miami are actively seeking reinforcements for the upcoming tournament, where they will face Al Ahly, Porto, and Palmeiras in Group A. While only officially announcing the signing of goalkeeper William Yarbrough so far, the team is working to provide Messi with the necessary support for the competition.

Reflecting on the win against Columbus, Mascherano commended his players' resilience. "After the first half we had, where we managed to score three goals and control the game, it’s a tough opponent that puts you under pressure.

"With their style of play, you can beat them, but you usually suffer a lot," he said. "I’m just grateful to the players - in the end, they understood the message and showed the courage to play. This victory belongs entirely to them."

Inter Miami's Club World Cup campaign begins on June 14 against Al Ahly at Hard Rock Stadium. Subsequent matches against Porto and Palmeiras will take place on June 19 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium and June 23 at Hard Rock Stadium, respectively.