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Lionel Messi, the famous Argentine footballer, has made a significant impact since joining Inter Miami in the Major League Soccer (MLS). As the team gears up for the 2024 MLS season, they will have to face a big challenge as Messi will miss 7 MLS games.
Messi’s commitments to the Argentina national team will require him to miss at least seven games throughout the season.
In this article, we will explore the impact of Messi’s absence on Inter Miami and analyze the matches he will miss, including the Copa America tournament and potential international friendlies.
Messi’s First Season with Inter Miami
Messi completed his first season with Inter Miami in November, where the team finished 14th in the Eastern Conference standings and missed out on the playoffs.
Despite the team’s overall performance, Messi showcased his exceptional skills, scoring 11 goals in his 14 appearances.
Joining the club as a free agent in June after his exit from Paris Saint-Germain, Messi’s arrival brought immense excitement to the MLS.
Messi’s Absence During the Copa America
The Copa America, slated to take place in June and July, will see Messi representing Argentina. As the team aims for another major title following their World Cup triumph in 2022, Messi’s commitment to his national team will result in his absence from at least five MLS games.
The Copa America schedule clashes with crucial matches for Inter Miami, including matchups against Philadelphia Union, Columbus Crew, Nashville SC, Charlotte FC, and FC Cincinnati.
Argentina’s group stage games against Chile, Peru, and another qualifying team will further keep Messi away from Inter Miami’s lineup.
The Copa America final is scheduled for July 14, just three days before Inter Miami hosts Toronto FC. This absence during a critical period of the season poses a significant challenge for Inter Miami.
Potential Absence During FIFA International Break
In March, Inter Miami could also face the possibility of Messi missing two games due to the FIFA international break.
While the exact matches Argentina will play during this period are yet to be confirmed, reports suggest the team might engage in friendly matches against European teams.
The opponents could include football powerhouses such as England, Portugal, Germany, France, or the Netherlands.
If these matches materialize, Messi will miss Inter Miami’s games against DC United on March 16 and New York Red Bulls on March 23.
Pre-season Preparations
Before the MLS season begins in February, Inter Miami will engage in a pre-season campaign comprising six games throughout February.
One of the highlights of this campaign is a matchup against Cristiano Ronaldo and Saudi Pro League club Al Nassr.
The pre-season preparations will serve as a valuable opportunity for Messi to adapt to his teammates and further enhance Inter Miami’s chances for success in the upcoming season.
The Impact of Messi’s Absence
Lionel Messi’s absence during important matches in the 2024 MLS season undoubtedly presents a challenge for Inter Miami.
As one of the world’s greatest footballers, Messi’s skills and presence on the field are unparalleled. His absence will impact the team’s attacking prowess, creativity, and overall performance.
Inter Miami will need to develop strategies to compensate for Messi’s absence and ensure that the team remains competitive during his absence.
The coaching staff and players will have to step up and take on additional responsibilities to fill the void left by Messi’s absence. This period will test the team’s resilience and ability to adapt to different playing styles and formations.
Key Dates and Matches Messi Will Miss
| Date | Opponent |
|---|---|
| June 15 | Philadelphia Union |
| June 19 | Columbus Crew |
| June 25 | Nashville SC |
| June 29 | Charlotte FC |
| July 6 | FC Cincinnati |
| March 16 | DC United |
| March 23 | New York Red Bulls |
Conclusion
As Lionel Messi will miss 7 MLS games during the 2024 MLS season, this will undoubtedly present challenges for the team.
His commitments to the Argentina national team, including the Copa America and potential international friendlies, will force him to miss several crucial matches. However, this period also presents an opportunity for the team to develop their chemistry, explore alternative strategies, and demonstrate their resilience.
Inter Miami must find ways to compensate for Messi’s absence and continue their pursuit of success in the MLS. As fans eagerly await Messi’s return to the lineup, the team must rally together and showcase their strengths on the field.
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