'There's nothing official' - Inter Miami coach Javier Mascherano says he hasn’t heard from Sergio Busquets on retirement rumors

Mascherano insisted he hasn't heard anything directly from Busquets following Partidazo COPE's report. 

“It’s what I’ve read and heard as well, but there’s nothing official,” Mascherano said. “I’m not the type to go ask players about rumors. Sergio is fully committed to the team and to the season, and we’re not focused on speculation.”

Busquets, who is MLS's third-highest earner this season at $8.8 million, has quietly been one of MLS's most effective playmakers since his arrival. He joined Inter Miami shortly before his longtime Barcelona teammate, Lionel Messi, did, and has recorded 14 assists and one goal from a deep-lying defensive midfield position. 

The 37-year-old is in the final months of his contract, which expires this December, and signs increasingly point toward retirement. So far, there’s been no indication that the Herons intend to offer him an extension. While his departure would leave a big hole for the club to fill in midfield, Inter Miami's blockbuster loan signing of Rodrigo De Paul this summer should help - if the club decides to use the deal's purchase option to make the move permanent at the end of the season. 

If this is Busquets's final season, he leaves with a significant legacy as a player. He's won 37 trophies as a club and national team player with Spain, with his wins in the World Cup, UEFA European Championship, and three Champions Leagues being the highlights. He's also won nine La Ligas and in MLS, he's won a Supporters' Shield and the Leagues Cup. He is aiming to finish his decorated career by potentially winning the MLS Cup this season. 

The Herons travel to New York this afternoon ahead of Wednesday’s clash with NYCFC, looking to keep climbing the Eastern Conference standings. Inter Miami currently sit fifth with 52 points and hold three games in hand, giving them a strong chance to break into the top spots as the MLS regular season enters its final stretch.