'Inter Miami always fights at the highest level' - Manager Javier Mascherano admits team 'needed' win over New York Red Bulls, looks ahead to MLS season and Club World Cup

Javier Mascherano emphasized the importance of Inter Miami’s 4-1 victory over the New York Red Bulls, which ended a three-match losing streak in MLS play. Both Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez scored for Miami.

The Argentine manager acknowledged the physical demands of the match and the much-needed lift it gave the squad.

"It was a very physically demanding game - we needed it," Mascherano said. "It was important to get back to a good feeling. In the first half, we were clinical in front of goal, something we lacked in previous matches. In the second half, we tried to control possession more, be less direct. At the end of the first half, we lost control of the ball and didn’t want to give them momentum."

Mascherano also praised the performance of midfielder Yannick Bright, highlighting his workrate and tactical discipline.

"He’s a great player. When he has to come off, it’s because he’s completely spent - he runs so much," he said. "We have to manage his minutes carefully so he doesn’t burn out. He and Fede [Redondo] provide crucial support to Busquets, who looked fresher today thanks to those support roles around him."

He added, "Yannick gives me quality whether he plays 20, 30, or 80 minutes. He’s reliable, and I always want players like that on my team."

Following the team's elimination from the Champions Cup semifinals by the Vancouver Whitecaps (5-1 on aggregate), Mascherano admitted the disappointment.

"Inter Miami always fights at the highest level," he said. "Sometimes, like against Vancouver, the opponent is just better. I don’t like to judge performances solely by the result - I'm not that kind of coach. I like to analyze. The public often reacts to results, and that’s understandable, but Vancouver clearly outplayed us and struck at key moments. That’s something I won’t deny."

Regarding Luis Suárez’s goal, which ended a lengthy goal drought, Mascherano said, “We’re very happy for him. Strikers live off goals, they live off confidence, and we hope this moment helps him build momentum.”

A crucial three points gave Mascherano some much-needed breathing room, following a rough stretch of three consecutive losses. With goals from Picault, Weigandt, Suárez, and Messi, the team secured a confidence boost just days after a painful 5–1 aggregate defeat to the Vancouver in the Champions Cup semifinals.

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"I’m the one who’s frustrated, along with the players, for not reaching the final," said El Jefecito. "But you have to remember, Inter Miami hasn’t had many opportunities to play games like these - we’re still learning. The results will come in the future. Rome wasn’t built in a day. This club has high expectations, but we haven’t been competing at this level for long.

"Greatness comes from big nights, from victories, comebacks, and even from mistakes. We’ll keep pushing because we believe this team can compete."

Mascherano mentioned the club is looking ahead to contending for the MLS Cup, Club World Cup and the Leagues Cup.

"We’re going to fight for the top spots in the Eastern Conference, and then we’ll see what comes with the Club World Cup and the Leagues Cup. But right now, the most important game is the next one," he said.

Mascherano’s team will look to keep earning three points as they visit Minnesota United on May 10. The hosts are also in strong form and currently sit near the top of the MLS Western Conference standings.