Trending Now - Messi to Play Regularly for Inter Miami Ahead of World Cup

WHO:

Javier Mascherano, head coach of Inter Miami CF

Lionel Messi, captain of Inter Miami CF

Antoine Griezmann, Atlético Madrid star

Orlando City SC, MLS team

WHAT:

Mascherano stated there are no plans to reduce Messi's workload ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Griezmann is set to sign a two-year deal with Orlando City SC, including an additional one-year option.

Griezmann is expected to begin playing for Orlando City in July 2026.

Griezmann left Atlético Madrid after a 3-2 derby loss to Real Madrid to finalize his move.

WHERE:

Inter Miami CF, located in Miami, Florida, USA

Orlando City SC, located in Orlando, Florida, USA

Atlético Madrid, located in Madrid, Spain

WHEN:

The 2026 FIFA World Cup will take place in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Griezmann is expected to start playing for Orlando City in July 2026.

Griezmann's current deal with Atlético Madrid runs through 2027.

Major League Soccer's summer transfer window opens on July 13, 2026.

WHY:

Mascherano emphasized that Messi must play to ensure the team's success.

Griezmann decided to finalize his move to Orlando City after completing the season with Atlético Madrid.

HOW:

Griezmann's transfer to Orlando City was reported to be finalized after discussions that began in February 2026.

(UPDATED March 23, 2026 07:28 UTC)

In a recent statement, Inter Miami CF head coach Javier Mascherano confirmed there are no plans to reduce Lionel Messi's workload as the team prepares for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Meanwhile, Antoine Griezmann has finalized a two-year deal with Orlando City SC, set to begin playing in July 2026 after leaving Atlético Madrid following a derby loss to Real Madrid. Griezmann's transfer discussions began back in February, and he will be joining Orlando as the Major League Soccer summer transfer window opens on July 13, 2026.