Inter Miami vs. Porto: Messi almost confirmed, and Mascherano’s predicted XI for the Club World Cup

Inter Miami head coach Javier Mascherano will have to make changes in defense, with center backs David Martínez and Gonzalo Luján still injured. Midfielders David Ruiz and Yannick Bright remain out as well. Marcelo Weigandt and Ian Fray are likely to step in to cover key roles at the back.

Inter Miami trained at the Florida Blue Training Center with their sights set on FC Porto, their second opponent in the 2025 Club World Cup. The big headline from the session: Lionel Messi was fully involved, showing no signs of discomfort after taking a heavy knock to the knee in the opener against Al Ahly.

He wasn’t the only key figure back in action. Jordi Alba also participated normally, having missed the first match due to a muscle injury. The veteran left back could return to the lineup against one of Europe’s strongest teams. Known for his exceptional understanding with Messi, their on-field chemistry could prove decisive. Another positive note: Allen Obando rejoined group training after working separately earlier in the week.

After wrapping up the training session, Mascherano’s team will fly to Atlanta (a two-hour trip) where they’ll spend the night ahead of the match. Head coach Javier Mascherano is scheduled to speak at a press conference at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, joined by Sergio Busquets, Ian Fray, and Federico Redondo.

Injuries complicate Mascherano’s lineup decisions

It’s not all good news for Inter Miami. The team will remain without injured center backs David Martínez and Gonzalo Luján, both ruled out. Midfielders David Ruiz and Yannick Bright are also unavailable, still recovering with the help of a physiotherapist and not fit to face Porto.

As a result, Mascherano is piecing together a new lineup. Marcelo Weigandt is expected to start at right back after impressing off the bench in the opener. Ian Fray, who performed well at center back in the second half, could retain his spot. With Jordi Alba ready to return on the left, Noah Allen would likely shift to center back. From midfield forward, no changes are expected: Mascherano plans to stick with the Messi-Suárez partnership, supported by Busquets and Redondo in central midfield, with Telasco Segovia and Tadeo Allende on the wings.

Inter Miami’s probable starting XI: Óscar Ustari; Marcelo Weigandt, Maxi Falcón or Ian Fray, Noah Allen, Jordi Alba; Telasco Segovia, Sergio Busquets, Federico Redondo, Tadeo Allende; Lionel Messi, Luis Suárez.