Veteran midfielder delivers blunt assessment ahead of tournament, while former teammate offers contrasting view.
Inter Miami’s upcoming participation in the FIFA Club World Cup has sparked debate after midfielder Sergio Busquets openly admitted that the team is not at the required level to compete with the world’s best. The Herons secured their spot as the host nation’s representative, but Busquets’ recent comments have tempered expectations ahead of the tournament.
Speaking to DAZN during the Miami Grand Prix weekend, the former Barcelona star didn’t mince words: “It’s clear that we’re not at the level to compete in the Club World Cup. But we’ll try to compete in the group, take it game by game, fight, and hopefully move on to the next round, though it’s going to be tough.”
Inter Miami was drawn into Group A alongside African champions Al Ahly, South American giants Palmeiras, and European contenders Porto. While some fans hoped for a surprise run, Busquets’ honesty suggests a more realistic outlook. His comments follow a mixed run of form, including a crushing elimination in the CONCACAF Champions Cup semifinals against the Vancouver Whitecaps.
However, not everyone in the Inter Miami camp shares Busquets’ pessimism. Argentina legend and current youth coach Javier Mascherano reportedly disagrees, believing the team can rise to the occasion. The contrasting views highlight the uncertainty around Inter Miami’s readiness for the global stage.
With Lionel Messi leading the squad, the Club World Cup offers a chance for Inter Miami to prove doubters wrong. But as Busquets cautioned, the road ahead will be anything but easy. The tournament kicks off next month, with all eyes on whether the MLS side can defy expectations.
