Is Lionel Messi playing for Inter Miami vs New York Red Bulls today, July 19?

This won’t be just another game for Inter Miami in their MLS campaign. After a tough loss to FC Cincinnati, the pressure is on to get back to winning ways and continue climbing the Eastern Conference standings. With Lionel Messi leading the charge, the team knows they can’t afford to drop any more points if they hope to catch up to Philadelphia Union at the top, that’s why a win against New York Red Bull is a must.

The Red Bull Arena will be the stage for this key clash, where the Herons will look to secure a victory that would take them to 41 points—leveling with Columbus Crew for fourth place in the Eastern Conference.

With several confirmed absences in Javier Mascherano’s squad, this matchup shapes up to be a pivotal challenge for both sides as they push to secure a potential playoff spot and build momentum heading into the final stretch of the season.

Will Lionel Messi play tonight against the New York Red Bulls?

In games like this, having the full roster available can be crucial—especially when it comes to a team’s biggest stars. There’s no doubt that Lionel Messi is the centerpiece of Inter Miami, and his presence on the pitch is nothing short of essential.

Lionel Messi #10 of Inter Miami CF shoots during the MLS match between FC Cincinnati and Inter Miami CF at TQL Stadium on July 16, 2025 in Cincinnati, Ohio.

While there’s still no official confirmation of the starting XI, it is widely expected that the Argentine No. 10 will once again be in the lineup and wearing the captain’s armband—barring any last-minute setbacks.

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If that’s the case, Herons fans can dare to dream of taking all three points from New York and continuing their strong push toward playoff qualification.

Injuries and absences: Who won’t be available for the coach?

While Mascherano will have the majority of his players available for this crucial matchup against the Red Bulls, several key absences will be a blow to his team’s tactical setup.

All of them sidelined due to various injuries, some more serious than others, here are the players who will miss the clash against New York: Oscar Ustari, Noah Allen, Ian Fray, Allen Obando, Baltazar Rodriguez and Drake Callender.