Lionel Messi will be absent from Inter Miami’s Leagues Cup quarterfinal showdown against Tigres UANL on Wednesday night due to a minor but persistent muscle injury. The issue began during Inter Miami’s group stage match against Necaxa on August 2. Messi was substituted just 11 minutes into the game after picking up a knock, and he subsequently missed the next two matches against Pumas UNAM and Orlando City SC.
Messi Not Fully Fit
Messi returned on Saturday during the match against LA Galaxy, coming on as a second-half substitute. He contributed right away, registering a goal and an assist in 45 minutes of play. Head coach Javier Mascherano later confirmed that Messi was not fully comfortable throughout the game and was under strict medical observation.
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Individual Training Creates Concerns
Before the Tigres match, Messi trained individually, away from the main squad. Although Mascherano did not officially rule him out at first, he made it clear that Messi’s fitness would be closely monitored and that the player would only participate if fully ready.
Matchday Decision: Messi Sidelined
On game day, Messi traveled with the team to Chase Stadium but wore street attire to signal his exclusion from the starting lineup. He will now sit in the stands as his colleagues play Tigres without their legendary No. 10.
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Inter Miami Seeks To Defend 2023 Title
Inter Miami lifted the Leagues Cup trophy in 2023 during Messi’s debut season, with the Argentine playing a crucial role in their championship run. The team will now attempt to progress to the semifinals and continue their title defense without their captain on the field.