Inter Miami’s manager, Javier Mascherano, has been non-committal regarding Lionel Messi’s potential participation in the upcoming Leagues Cup quarterfinal against Tigres. This matchup is set for Wednesday, August 20, at Chase Stadium.
Concerns over the Argentine superstar’s fitness loom large as the team prepares for this vital encounter. La Pulga sustained a minor injury during the group stage clash with Necaxa earlier in August.
The eight-time Ballon d’Or recipient was sidelined for the subsequent two games but made his return against LA Galaxy over the weekend in MLS action. Coming off the bench in the second half, Messi contributed one goal and assisted another in Inter Miami’s 3-1 victory.
However, attentive fans observed Messi frequently touching his leg during the match and leaving promptly after the final whistle. Recent reports indicate that La Pulga might miss the midweek showdown, a significant setback for the Herons.
In a statement to the media, Mascherano confirmed that the 38-year-old has been training apart from the rest of the squad.
“We will keep monitoring him; I can’t say whether he will play or not, but he’s not ruled out,” stated Mascherano.
Throughout this season, Lionel Messi has netted 25 goals and provided 11 assists in 32 matches across all competitions for Inter Miami.
What has Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami teammate Marcelo Weigandt said about his fitness
Inter Miami defender Marcelo Weigandt has indicated that Lionel Messi tends to recover swiftly from injuries. Despite missing four matches this year, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner remains a crucial element of the team’s strategy.
Since his arrival as a free agent in 2023, following his departure from Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), Messi has led the Florida-based club to secure their first two trophies in history.
In a recent interview with the media, Weigandt expressed admiration for his fellow countryman.
“Having Leo available for every match is exceptional. In the last game, he came on in the second half and performed magnificently. He returned from injury as if he had never been sidelined. It’s truly wonderful to share the field with him daily and in every match,” Weigandt noted.
Messi’s contract with Inter Miami is set to expire at the end of this year, leaving his future uncertain.
Image Source: Lionel Messi @ Instagram
