Inter Miami are set to kick off their campaign in the newly expanded international tournament this Saturday against Egyptian giants Al Ahly, and both head coach Javier Mascherano and veteran defender Jordi Alba are embracing the occasion with pride and purpose.
Speaking ahead of the match, Mascherano who took charge of the MLS club in November 2024, shared his excitement at leading a team representing not only the United States but also the diverse and passionate Latin American community that calls Miami home.
“We’re in quite a unique place because, despite being in the United States, we’re in a place where there is a big Latino community and you can really feel that Latin American atmosphere,” the Argentine tactician said.
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Mascherano, a former Barcelona and Liverpool midfielder, acknowledged the symbolic weight of playing in Miami, a city known for its vibrant Latino culture and international appeal.
“And then specifically with Inter Miami, being in a city like Miami offers the chance for many people who are visiting as tourists to come and watch us play. But we also have lots of fans too, which you see at our games,” he added. “We hope they support us and come to all three matches, including the one we have to play away in Atlanta.”
Cultural Representation Beyond Football
Jordi Alba, who joined Inter Miami in 2023 alongside longtime Barcelona teammate Lionel Messi, echoed Mascherano’s sentiments, highlighting how the club has become a symbol of cultural unity and football passion in North America.
“We feel like we’re representing something bigger than ourselves,” Alba said in a separate interview. “Every match feels like a celebration of football — Latino fans, American fans, international fans — all cheering together. That’s something special.”
The match against Al Ahly, a club with a storied history in African and world football, will be a stern test for the MLS side as they look to make a mark in the high-profile tournament. With a blend of youthful talent and veteran experience, Inter Miami aim to bring a competitive edge while flying the flag for both American soccer and the wider Latin American footballing tradition.
Eyes on the Group Stage
Saturday’s fixture is the first of three group-stage matches for Inter Miami, with a crucial away clash in Atlanta looming. Mascherano is expected to rely on the leadership of Alba and other seasoned players to guide the team through what promises to be a challenging schedule.
The match will be a cultural clash as much as a footballing contest — Inter Miami’s Latin flair versus Al Ahly’s African pedigree. Fans from across the globe will be watching, and Mascherano knows exactly what it means.
“It’s football, but it’s also identity. It’s pride. We hope to give our fans a performance that reflects that.”
