Lionel Messi will not play for Inter Miami in their MLS regular-season game against Orlando City SC on Sunday as he continues to recuperate from a muscle injury in his right leg. The 38-year-old forward sustained the injury early in the club’s previous encounter and remains sidelined to avoid risking further harm ahead of critical upcoming fixtures.
Details of Injury and Recent Absences
Messi was hurt in the seventh minute during Inter Miami’s match against Necaxa when he collided with two defenders after a rapid dribble. Although he initially stayed on the field, he left the game by the 11th minute and was later diagnosed with the right leg muscle injury. This setback also caused him to miss the recent Leagues Cup match versus Liga MX’s Pumas UNAM.
Miami‘s head coach Javier Mascherano confirmed before the Orlando match,
“Leo will not be available tomorrow. He’s fine, but obviously it would be crazy to risk taking him to Orlando with everything we have ahead of us.”
He added,
“We’re optimistic he’ll be back with us soon.”
Current Training Status and Team Composition Without Messi
Despite not being match-fit, Messi participated in individual training on Saturday, conducting a separate session away from the main group. Up to this point in the MLS season, Messi has been prolific, scoring 18 goals over 18 league appearances while also playing important minutes in international and regional competitions such as the FIFA Club World Cup, Leagues Cup, and Concacaf Champions Cup.
While Messi will be missing from the Florida derby with Orlando City, Inter Miami still boasts a roster with high-profile players including Rodrigo De Paul, Sergio Busquets, Luis Suárez, and Jordi Alba, who continue to provide strength and experience to the squad.
Anticipated Return and Upcoming Matches to Watch
The team and fans are hopeful to see Messi back on the field for Inter Miami’s upcoming match against LA Galaxy on August 16, or potentially for the Leagues Cup quarterfinal against Tigres UANL on August 20. His return would be significant in boosting the team’s performance during this critical phase of the season.