After a Leagues Cup exit, as Inter Miami CF turn their focus to Major League Soccer, Lionel Messi’s availability remains the biggest talking point. The Argentine icon, fresh off a World Cup campaign, lost his father, Jorge Messi, who passed at 68. Despite the family tragedy, Messi came on as a substitute in the last game for Miami, who lost the game 2-3 to Leon.
Ahead of their upcoming MLS clash against Nashville SC, Inter Miami boss Guillermo Hoyos urged everyone to respect Messi’s privacy in this difficult situation. The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, in an emotional social media note for his late father, even hinted at hanging up his boots in the near future.
Nashville SC vs Inter Miami CF: Is Lionel Messi playing today?
Lionel Messi’s availability for Inter Miami’s upcoming MLS match against Nashville SC remains uncertain, but head coach Hoyos has refused to speculate on the Argentine star’s status. Instead, he emphasised the need to respect Messi’s personal circumstances and maintain boundaries around matters that are not meant for public discussion.
“There are things that are deeply private,” Hoyos said, adding that Messi is “facing challenges” like anyone else and deserves that privacy. He also underlined the Argentine’s importance to the club beyond his performances on the pitch, praising him as “a wonderful human being with a huge heart” and insisting that words cannot fully describe his value.
Inter Miami Team News
Inter Miami could have Lionel Messi available after he returned to action against Club León following his recent absence. German Berterame remains doubtful with a nose injury, while Tadeo Allende is dealing with a knee problem. Luis Suárez is also expected to return after serving a Leagues Cup suspension, with the striker looking to continue his scoring streak in MLS.
Inter Miami Predicted Starting Lineup: Rios Novo, Fray, Caicedo, Micael, Allen, Bright, Casemiro, De Paul, Messi, Suarez, Silvetti
