Inter Miami coach Javier Mascherano announced three absences affecting his team ahead of their match against Al Ahly in the opening match of the 2025 Club World Cup.
The good news for the American club is that Lionel Messi is injury-free and will be fit to play, but another former Barcelona star will not be able to.
Left-back Jordi Alba is also injured and will miss the Al Ahly match, according to Mascherano.
In addition to Alba, the Argentine coach confirmed the absence of Gonzalo Lujan and Yannick Praet due to injury, but indicated that the trio have a good chance of making it to the upcoming match against Porto.
The absence of the trio undoubtedly benefits Al Ahly, which aspires to surprise everyone and achieve its first victory, increasing its chances of reaching the round of 16.
Al Ahly will face Inter Miami on Sunday morning (Saturday night) at Hard Rock Stadium. The Egyptian club will then face Palmeiras and conclude the group stage with a tough match against Portuguese giants Porto.
