Messi Sidelined as Inter Miami Eyes Safety First
Everyone wants to see Lionel Messi on the pitch, but Inter Miami fans will have to wait a little longer. Messi, who picked up a minor muscle injury early in the victory over Necaxa on August 2, is officially out for the Leagues Cup match against Pumas UNAM. The setback happened just 11 minutes into the game when Messi signaled trouble in his right leg. The club’s medical staff didn’t waste any time pulling him off for an immediate assessment. The buzz this week has revolved around whether Messi might make a dramatic comeback, but that’s not happening just yet.
Head coach Javier Mascherano talked honestly during a packed press conference, confirming Messi’s absence. He described the injury as “slight,” finding relief in the fact that things could have been much worse for Inter Miami’s biggest star. Still, Mascherano isn’t one for guessing games when it comes to recovery. “In Leo’s case, we take things slow. He’s known for bouncing back quickly, but we won’t take chances,” he said. Clearly, Inter Miami wants Messi available for the long haul, not just a single high-stakes matchup.
Looking at the Bigger Picture: Schedule and Squad Options
This isn’t just about one game. Messi will also sit out Sunday’s MLS battle with Orlando City, adding more weight to the club’s caution. Mascherano labeled the idea of Messi playing in Orlando as “crazy,” emphasizing the risks aren’t worth it with even bigger matches looming on the calendar. The coaching staff, along with medical experts, plan to track his “clinical progress and response to treatment” rather than rush him back onto the field.
Messi has started specialized training, keeping away from full team sessions while he gets back to his best. If all goes according to plan, the Lionel Messi comeback could happen on August 16 against LA Galaxy in the MLS or possibly the Leagues Cup quarterfinal versus Tigres UANL on August 20. Miami’s August schedule is packed, so keeping Messi healthy is top priority, especially since the team is fighting to secure a playoff spot.
In Messi’s absence, the pressure falls on seasoned players like Sergio Busquets, Luis Suárez, and recent addition Rodrigo De Paul. Mascherano is confident in the squad’s depth—underlining that Miami isn’t a one-man show. But let’s be honest, Messi’s 18 goals in 18 league matches this year are tough to replace. Every fan knows just how vital he is for the club’s ambitions, especially in a season where every point counts.
The next few weeks will show just how much grit and creativity Miami has in their locker. Until Messi is firing on all cylinders again, it’s up to the rest of the squad to step up and keep the playoff dream alive. No one’s pretending his absence isn’t a blow, but the focus stays on careful recovery and getting him ready for the games that matter most.
