Inter Miami head coach Javier Mascherano has described Lionel Messi as “one of a kind” as the Argentine forward closes in on the remarkable milestone of 900 career goals. Messi is expected to have his next opportunity to move closer to the mark on Saturday night when Inter Miami face D.C. United.
Mascherano and Messi share a long history together for both club and country, having been teammates for years with the Argentina national team and at Barcelona. Now reunited in Miami, Mascherano is witnessing Messi’s late-career chapter from the touchline, and he has been vocal about the uniqueness of the 37‑year‑old’s sustained excellence. While exact tallies can vary depending on how different competitions are counted, Messi’s scoring record across club and international play places him among the most prolific players in the history of the sport.
Since arriving at Inter Miami, Messi has been the focal point of the club’s attack, drawing large crowds and global attention to Major League Soccer. His influence has extended beyond goal scoring, with his creativity, passing range, and leadership helping to shape the team’s style under Mascherano. The coach’s latest comments underscore how highly he regards Messi’s all‑around impact, not just his finishing ability.
The match against D.C. United provides another stage for Messi to add to his career totals and further cement his legacy. Every goal now carries added historical weight as he pushes toward another landmark in a career already defined by record‑breaking achievements. Mascherano’s praise reflects the sentiment shared by many who have played alongside or coached Messi over the years: that his combination of longevity, consistency, and technical quality sets him apart even among the game’s greatest talents.
As Inter Miami prepare for the weekend fixture, attention will again center on Messi’s performance and whether he can move closer to the 900‑goal threshold. Regardless of when he ultimately reaches it, Mascherano’s assessment of the forward as “one of a kind” captures the sense that supporters are watching a player in the final stages of an extraordinary, era‑defining career.
