Inter Miami head coach Javier Mascherano pushed back against criticism of his squad’s early form on Friday. Despite a 2-2 draw with Austin FC, the MLS Cup champions sit fourth in the Eastern Conference with 11 points from six matches, having lost only the opening game to LAFC. Mascherano emphasized the team’s collective progress rather than individual blame. He also praised the defensive unit's resilience.

Mascherano noted that external noise stems from lofty expectations tied to the presence of Lionel Messi, who already boasts five goals in his first five MLS outings. Yet, no other Miami player has more than one strike, and new signing Germán Berterame remains goalless. The coach warned the side must generate more chances if it hopes to maintain momentum.

Looking ahead, Miami hosts the New York Red Bulls at the newly opened Nu Stadium on Saturday, with defenders Sergio Reguilón and Facundo Mura expected to return. Forward Tadeo Allende, who limped off against Austin, missed the first fifteen minutes of training but is listed as a question‑mark. Mascherano remains confident the squad will keep improving.