Lionel Messi - Getty Images
Lionel Messi made a short comeback for Inter Miami but had to leave the Toronto match early due to a leg injury. Inter Miami won 4-0 without him and is now just five points away from the final playoff spot in the Eastern Conference of Major League Soccer.
Messi’s Recent Absences & Jordi Alba’s Setback
Robert Taylor, who replaced Messi, scored two goals and provided an assist. But the focus was on Messi, and coach Gerardo “Tata” Martino confirmed that Messi won’t be playing in the upcoming Sunday’s game against Orlando due to an old injury that had been bothering him.
Martino also hinted that Messi might miss more than one game. Messi, who is 36 years old, has already missed two recent matches due to fatigue. The team didn’t provide details about his current injury. The game was tied when Messi left the field.
It was a tough day for Inter Miami as Jordi Alba also had to leave the match in the 34th minute, and won’t be available for the next game either.
Despite these setbacks, Inter Miami is showing depth with other players like Facundo Farias and Benjamin Cremaschi scoring goals.
Messi’s Health Concerns
Messi had a couple of chances in the game but seemed to be struggling physically before being subbed out in the 37th minute. He took off his captain’s armband and left the field, raising concerns about his condition.
Martino emphasized that Messi’s substitution was a precaution, not indicating a muscular injury. Still, they will continue to monitor him closely.
Inter Miami’s Challenging Schedule Ahead
Inter Miami faces a demanding schedule with six matches in 17 days, including the U.S. Open Cup final on September 27. Messi’s availability for these crucial games remains uncertain.
The Impact of Messi on Inter Miami’s Streak
Before Messi’s recent arrival, Inter Miami had a 12-match unbeaten streak, and they now have a chance to secure a playoff spot by winning their remaining MLS matches. Messi has been a significant contributor to the streak, with 11 goals, eight assists, and a strong performance in MLS matches.
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