Inter Miami loses star Alba for Club World Cup opening match

Absence of key players

The American club will be without their Spanish defender Jordi Alba for the match, as confirmed by their Argentine coach, Javier Mascherano. Alba joins Italian midfielder Yannick Braithwaite, who will also be unavailable for Sunday’s match in Miami, part of the first round of the newly expanded Club World Cup featuring 32 teams.

Coach's statement

Mascherano stated, "Jordi and Yannick will not be available for this match, but I hope they will be ready for the second match," which is set to feature Argentine star Lionel Messi against Portuguese side Porto next Thursday in Atlanta, followed by the final group stage match against Brazilian team Palmeiras in Miami.

Impact of Alba's absence

Alba's absence, due to a muscle issue in his leg, is a significant blow for Inter Miami, not only because of his defensive skills but also due to his contributions in attack and his ability to assist former Barcelona teammates Messi and Uruguayan Luis Suárez.