'When he doesn't stand out, it's because one of us is failing' – Inter Miami's Javier Mascherano says team must deliver for Lionel Messi to be at his best

Inter Miami manager Javier Mascherano didn’t hold back in his praise - and his expectations - for Lionel Messi and his teammates following The Herons' emphatic 5–1 win over the Columbus Crew on Matchday 17.

“We try to help him in every way we can, both the players and us as staff. 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,” Mascherano said. “Over time, as a teammate and now as a coach, I continue to enjoy the things he does on the field.”

Messi was at his best again, registering two goals and two assists to lead a dominant Miami attack that also featured goals from Tadeo Allende, Luis Suárez, and Fafa Picault.

The Herons’ second consecutive win caps a strong response to a difficult run of form in late April and mid-May, when they managed just one victory in eight matches. Now unbeaten in three straight, Miami sits third in the Eastern Conference with 29 points - five behind leaders Philadelphia Union.

Mascherano emphasized that everything the team does is meant to help Messi thrive, especially with international competition looming.

“We want to build everything around him so he can shine,” he said. “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.”

Although they’ve only officially announced the signing of American goalkeeper William Yarbrough so far, Mascherano’s team is actively looking to give Lionel Messi the tools he needs for the upcoming Club World Cup, which kicks off this summer. Inter Miami will compete in Group A alongside Al Ahly, Porto, and Palmeiras.

Now, with back-to-back wins in MLS, The Herons have a couple of weeks to start preparing for the tournament. Thanks to these two victories, they can head into the MLS break on a high note, regaining momentum and confidence just when it matters most.

"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," said the Argentine after Saturday’s 5–1 win over Columbus Crew.

"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."

Mascherano’s team will kick off the Club World Cup on June 14 at Hard Rock Stadium. They’ll face Porto on June 19 at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, and will close out the group stage against Palmeiras on June 23, once again at Hard Rock Stadium.