After being sidelined for Inter Miami’s 0–0 draw against Charlotte FC, Lionel Messi and Rodrigo De Paul are set to return for the crucial Concacaf Champions Cup match against Nashville SC on Wednesday, March 18.
Head coach Javier Mascherano confirmed the availability of both stars during a press conference ahead of the Round of 16 second leg. “Leo and Rodrigo are in perfect condition, as is everyone except Maxi [Falcon],” Mascherano stated, noting that the defender is the squad’s only injury concern.
Following a scoreless draw in the first leg, Inter Miami face a high-stakes scenario at Chase Stadium. Due to the away goals rule, Nashville hold a tiebreaker advantage; any scored draw (such as 1–1 or 2–2) would result in Messi and Inter Miami being eliminated from the competition.
Mascherano explains Messi and De Paul’s absences
The absence of the Argentine duo was palpable, as the squad lacked the offensive spark typically provided by Messi and the high-intensity presence De Paul brings to the midfield.
Lionel Messi #10 and Rodrigo De Paul #7 of Inter Miami. (Getty mages)
According to Mascherano, the decision to rest both players was a preventative measure due to their heavy workload. Both stars have endured a grueling schedule, featuring in nine matches over just a six-week span.
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“Clearly, Rodrigo and Leo did not travel; it was a decision we made together with them,” Mascherano explained during a press conference. “We were coming off a lot of travel and games on synthetic turf. We preferred for them to avoid the trip and rest. It was nine games in a month and a half”.
The return of these two players provide a significant boost to Inter Miami’s production. Messi is the team’s leading scorer this season, with three goals in three MLS appearances this season. Meanwhile, De Paul is a dual-threat in the midfield who, has recorded one goal in three league matches while providing vital defensive cover.
