Inter Miami will be missing their Spanish international left-back Jordi Alba for the inaugural match of the Club World Cup on Saturday, where they face Egypt’s Al Ahly.
Miami’s head coach, Javier Mascherano, revealed in a press conference on Friday that the former Barcelona star will not participate in the Group A fixture at Hard Rock Stadium.
In a further setback for the Major League Soccer side, defensive midfielder Yannick Bright has also been sidelined for the tournament opener.
“Jordi and Yannick won’t be available for this match, but we’re hopeful they’ll be fit for the second game,” commented the Argentine manager.
Miami will take on Porto on Thursday in Atlanta, followed by a clash against Brazil’s Palmeiras back in South Florida to round off the group stage.
Alba, dealing with a leg muscle injury, will be significantly missed by Mascherano, not just for his defensive skills but also for his ability to deliver crucial passes to Lionel Messi.
Bright had been providing essential physicality in midfield alongside the experienced Sergio Busquets.
“Naturally, we would have preferred to have a fully fit squad for this match as it would bolster our strength,” Mascherano expressed, also lamenting the lack of new signings to reinforce the team for the tournament.
Despite these challenges, the former Barcelona and Liverpool player stated that his squad is eager for the opportunity to compete on an international level.
“This is a distinctive competition and we’re fortunate to be a part of it. We earned our spot here last year, and I believe it’s a fantastic chance to gauge our capabilities,” he added.
Miami secured their place in the tournament as the host nation’s representative after clinching the MLS Supporters’ Shield, awarded to the team with the best regular-season performance.
However, Miami did not claim the MLS championship title, falling to Atlanta in the opening round of the playoffs, while the Los Angeles Galaxy went on to win the MLS Cup.
Media representatives were surprised to find that the field markings were not yet completed upon arrival at the venue, with some repairs underway on the pitch.
“Let’s hope it’s in top condition; FIFA has ample experience in this area. But as I always say, we focus on what we can control,” stated the Miami coach.
Miami will be counting on Messi’s individual brilliance to help offset their losses in other areas of the pitch.
Jose Riveiro, Al Ahly’s coach from Spain, believes his team, often regarded as the most successful club in Africa, is not underestimating Miami, especially with the presence of the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner.
“First and foremost, he possesses incredible skill, along with a brilliant understanding of the game. He remains the influential player he has always been, especially in the final third, and he shares a great understanding with Busquets and Luis Suarez,” he remarked.
“Our focus will be on limiting their service and neutralising their play. We recognise the need to execute our game plan effectively to force (Miami) into making errors,” added Riveiro.
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