(Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)

Javier Mascherano Fires Back as Inter Miami Face Early Season Criticism

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Pragjyoti Singh | Last updated Apr 10, 2026 3:08 PM ET

Inter Miami manager Javier Mascherano has come out in defense of his team following criticism of their start to the year.

The Herons were knocked out of the Champions Cup by Nashville SC and currently sit fourth in the Eastern Conference table, having won three of their first six MLS matches.

While Lionel Messi has continued to play a pivotal role, scoring five goals so far this season, his teammates have struggled to find the back of the net.

Off-season signing Germán Berterame has yet to score, and no other Miami player has recorded more than a single goal thus far.

Javier Mascherano sends a Strong Message on Inter Miami’s Performance

Following a recent draw with Austin FC, Mascherano opened up about the team’s current form.

During a press conference, he stated: "The reality here is that we are a team. I believe that, even though the team still has plenty of room for improvement, there are also many positives."

The 41-year-old also addressed the "noise" surrounding last season's MLS Cup winners.

"I understand that, at times, there is a lot of noise coming from the outside, driven by the high expectations surrounding the team and the caliber of players we have, but things aren't actually as bad as they might seem."

"We've played eight matches; we only lost the very first one at the start of the season," he added.

Lionel Messi #10 of Inter Miami CF chats with Javier Mascherano, Head Coach of Inter Miami CF.Photo by Rich Storry/Getty Images

Mascherano pointed out that while the team is effective at building play, they must improve their efficiency in front of goal.

"Obviously, we have Leo, who is a case apart, and he gives us the ability to practically score or create scoring chances in every single match," Mascherano said.

He called for more goal contributions from the rest of the roster, noting that the team’s creative output remains high.

"Yes, we do need contributions from the rest of the squad; that much is clear. Because if there is one thing this team does well, it is creating chances. There are moments, or stretches of the season, when certain players are on better terms with scoring, and other times when they are less so; but regardless, we will keep at it."

Inter Miami CF is scheduled to face the New York Red Bulls next at 7:30 PM ET on April 11, 2026.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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