Miami won the MLS Cup for the first time in its history last year, clinching the trophy with a 3-1 win over the Vancouver Whitecaps in December.

While they topped the charts in 2024, winning the Supporters' Shield before crashing out in the first round of the playoffs, last season they finished third in the Eastern Conference.

Miami, led by Lionel Messi but now without the retired Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba, have cemented themselves as one of the top challengers in the competition, and will open their new campaign with a trip to Los Angeles FC on Saturday.

Mascherano acknowledged that having Messi in the side has contributed to their achievements, but insists Miami will continue to grow.

"I can certainly speak on the time I've been here. You can clearly see the club's growth on a daily basis," he said.

"As we always say, Leo's presence has contributed significantly to that. I think it's very important for the Inter Miami brand to continue on this path of growth and to keep getting bigger every day.

"I also believe that our sporting success has played a big role in how the club is viewed today. The ambition and vision of the club are to keep growing day by day and to always strive for more."

LAFC, meanwhile, finished third in the West last season, having battled for the top spot throughout, but were ultimately beaten on penalties in the semifinals of the playoffs by the Whitecaps.

They come into the new season with a new head coach following Steve Cherundolo's departure at the end of the last campaign.

Marc dos Santos was promoted into the role from season assistant, and he believes that stands him in good stead to continue LAFC's progression, as he is already familiar with the club

"I know the club, I know the culture," he told GOAL. "I know what the team wants to be about.

"I know what the owners want this team to be about. I know the academy, how the second team wants to play, and an impact in the first team.

"I know the majority of the players. I know how they think, what they're like."