Inter Miami‘s campaign at the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup is off to a rocky start, with star left back Jordi Alba officially ruled out of the tournament opener against Al Ahly.
The setback comes at a critical time for head coach Javier Mascherano, whose squad already faces depth concerns as they prepare to compete on the international stage.
The expanded version of the Club World Cup will debut in the United States this summer, bringing together 32 of the world’s best teams.
The Miami-based club has been drawn into a challenging group alongside Egyptian champions Al Ahly, Brazilian side Palmeiras, and Portuguese powerhouse FC Porto. The first test comes Saturday at Hard Rock Stadium.
Inter Miami boasts a high-profile roster that includes Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez, Sergio Busquets, and Alba – all former Barcelona stars.
The quartet has helped transform the club into one of the most competitive teams in Major League Soccer. They currently sit sixth in the MLS standings and won the 2024 Supporters’ Shield after racking up a league-record 74 points.
But Mascherano’s tactical options have been suddenly limited after confirming Alba and midfielder Yannick Bright will not be available for the team’s first match.
Alba’s absence forces tactical rethink
Alba has been a standout performer since joining Inter Miami, contributing significantly to the team’s attacking play from his full-back role.
In 2024, he was named to the MLS All-Star team, tallying 20 goal contributions – five goals and 15 assists – from the defensive flank.
His chemistry with Messi has been particularly crucial. Across their time at both Barcelona and Inter Miami, Alba has assisted 29 of Messi‘s goals, more than Busquets (23), though behind Suarez‘s 63.
Without Alba on the field, opposing teams like Al Ahly may find it easier to isolate Messi and disrupt Miami’s attacking rhythm.
Mascherano didn’t hide his disappointment when discussing the absence. He also took a subtle swipe at the front office for failing to make any additions ahead of the Club World Cup.
“We needed reinforcements before this competition,” Mascherano said. “Now we’re stretched, and losing Jordi makes it that much harder.”
With Alba sidelined, Mascherano will likely turn to young options like Noah Allen or David Ruiz to cover the left back position.
Al Ahly, known for their disciplined and experienced squad, present a formidable challenge. The Egyptian club has won the CAF Champions League a record 11 times and enters the match with a proven winning pedigree.
Despite the hurdles, Inter Miami will still look to make a statement. With Messi, Suarez, and Busquets anchoring the side, and Mascherano leading from the touchline, the team remains one of the most-watched clubs in the tournament.
However, Alba‘s injury has added pressure on a side that was already battling questions about depth and readiness.
As the Club World Cup kicks off, Miami‘s ambitions face an immediate and difficult test, and they’ll have to face it without one of their most trusted veterans.
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