Inter Miami in Libertadores? Messi’s coach open to entry | OneFootball

Javier Mascherano spoke about the topic that came up this week

Flamengo in Miami to play the Libertadores? The subject has been considered in recent days, regarding a possible participation of teams from the United States in the tournament. Messi’s coach at Inter (USA), Javier Mascherano, revealed that it would be a dream to play on the South American continent.

— Obviously, for us, being able to participate in the Copa Libertadores would be fantastic, personally I would love it. But I have no idea if it’s possible or not. I can’t give an opinion. I know that Mexican teams participated at a certain point, then stopped. If the possibility exists, I hope so, but that will depend on the organizers — said Mascherano at a press conference.

WHY DID THIS TOPIC COME UP?

Recently, Inter Miami co-owner Jorge Mas met with Conmebol president Alejandro Domínguez about the possibility of teams from the United States and Mexico participating in the Libertadores. The fact that Lionel Messi, one of the greatest stars in the history of world football, has never played in the tournament could be a game changer.

— Obviously, a tournament like the Copa Libertadores, I would love to see Inter Miami participate one day to compete against the giants of South America. It’s a competition that Leo (Messi) has not played in yet. These are our aspirations — said Mas.

DO YOU REMEMBER?

Teams from the United States have never participated in the Libertadores. However, Mexico played in the tournament regularly until 2016. Three teams from the country even finished as runners-up: Cruz Azul (2001), Chivas (2010), and Pumas (2015). However, if these teams had lifted the trophy, they would not have played in the Club World Cup, as they are affiliated with Concacaf, not Conmebol.

One of the biggest embarrassments in the history of Flamengo happened precisely against a Mexican team in the Libertadores. In 2008, in the round of 16, Mengão won 4-2 at the legendary Azteca Stadium. However, at Maracanã, América of Mexico won 3-0 and advanced in the competition.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇧🇷 here.