Lionel Messi will sit out Inter Miami’s highly anticipated showdown with Orlando City, as the Argentine legend continues to recover from a minor muscle strain. Coach Javier Mascherano confirmed the decision on Saturday, emphasizing that while Messi is in good spirits, risking him at this stage would be premature.
“He’s fine,” Mascherano said, “but it would be crazy to take him to Orlando with so much ahead of us. We’re optimistic he’ll be back soon.”
Messi picked up the injury in his right leg during Miami’s Leagues Cup win over Necaxa on August 2. Since then, he has missed two matches, including the group stage finale against Pumas UNAM. Inter Miami secured a 3–1 victory in that game, earning a spot in the Leagues Cup quarterfinals.
The team now turns its focus to a packed schedule, with LA Galaxy visiting on August 16, followed by a high-stakes clash against Mexican side Tigres UANL just three days later. Messi’s return is expected to be timed carefully, with the club prioritizing his long-term fitness over short-term appearances.
Inter Miami currently sits fifth in the MLS Eastern Conference, trailing leaders Philadelphia by eight points but holding three games in hand. Orlando, their Florida rivals, are just one point behind.
In Messi’s absence, fellow Argentine Rodrigo De Paul has stepped up, scoring his first goal for the club and helping secure their Leagues Cup progression. With momentum building and key matches on the horizon, Miami is banking on depth and discipline as they await their talisman’s return.
+ There are no comments
Add yours