Amid questions about his low scoring rate in matches, Luis Suarez found a staunch defender in Javier Mascherano, who highlighted the importance of the striker beyond statistics.

Former teammate and now coach Javier Mascherano indicates that the Uruguayan's role goes far beyond scoring goals and that his influence on the team remains decisive. Since his arrival at Inter Miami, the Uruguayan striker Luis Suarez has faced different points of view from the press and some analysts, due to his lack of goals in matches

For a player like Luis Suarez, who is used to breaking nets in Europe and South America, a "drought" always raises criticism and headlines.

However, goals are not everything, and this is something that Javier Mascherano is well aware of, as he did not hesitate to speak out in defense of his former FC Barcelona teammate and current MLS star. In recent statements, the Argentine coach expressed his full support for Suarez, remembering that his value cannot be reduced to a statistic.

It would not be right for me to criticise someone who has scored more than 500 goals in his career. Luis is a great player, as are Leo, Busquets and Jordi. When he doesn't score, the discussion starts, but he gives us much more

Javier Mascherano

Luis Suarez and Javier Mascherano await results

The momentum continues 🔋🤩 Next up: Cincinnati 🔜 pic.twitter.com/fZgw1iNHaf

— Inter Miami CF (@InterMiamiCF) July 13, 2025

Suarez's attitude in the dressing room is another of the points highlighted by Mascherano:

Luis is a reference. Although he is not scoring as much, he is still an example for the younger players. We must not forget everything he has contributed and continues to contribute to football

Javier Mascherano

This statement is important, especially in a league like MLS, where cultural and physical adaptation can pose an extra challenge for veteran players.