Javier Mascherano believes that the upcoming Club World Cup is the "most important competition" in Inter Miami's history ahead of their first game against Al Ahly. 

Miami are one of three MLS teams, alongside the Seattle Sounders and Los Angeles FC, taking part in the revamped 32-team tournament across the United States. 

The Herons have been placed in Group A alongside Palmeiras and Porto, and kickstart their group campaign on June 14 against Egyptian side Al Ahly. 

Mascherano has endured an indifferent start to his tenure in Miami, with the club third in the Eastern Conference in the MLS after taking 29 points from their first 16 matches. 

Miami are given a 22.9% chance of reaching the last 16, with Al Ahly (18.3%) only having a lower probability of progressing from Group A according to the Opta supercomputer.

And ahead of their first game at the Hard Rock Stadium in Florida, Mascherano was adamant that Miami had never participated in a bigger tournament. 

"We're surely facing the most important competition in the history of our club. It hasn't been around for long, but this is the biggest tournament we've played," Mascherano said.

Mascherano also voiced his frustration at the lack of signings after his side suffered multiple injuries ahead of their tournament opener. 

Defenders Jordi Alba and Gonzalo Lujan have been ruled out of the opening match, but star man Lionel Messi should be fit for the game.

"We've been talking for two months about the clear need to strengthen the team. Everyone will have to take responsibility," Mascherano added. 

"We have high hopes with Leo in the squad. As we always say, the goal is to support him, to create an environment where he feels comfortable and can do what he always does."

"The reality is that throughout the season, the team have dealt with injuries, but the players who stepped in rose to the challenge. That gives us peace of mind."

Messi is no stranger to the CWC, having won it three times with Barcelona (2009, 2011, 2015), and will be hoping to lead the charge for Miami in the competition.

The Argentine will also be playing in his fourth CWC. He won the trophy in all three of his previous participations, scoring five goals in as many matches with Barca. 

Miami also have several experienced players in their squad, with Alba, Luis Suarez and Sergio Busquets all lifting the title during their time with the Blaugrana. 

And Mascherano believes the experience of those players will be invaluable in this competition.

"We're fortunate to have several players who've competed in tournaments like this, not just at the club level, but also with their national teams," said Mascherano.