Is Lionel Messi playing today? Inter Miami visit Minnesota United on MLS Matchday 12

This Saturday, Inter Miami visit Minnesota United in one of the most highly anticipated matches of the 2025 MLS season. Both clubs aim to secure vital points on Matchday 12, but all eyes will be on one player: Lionel Messi.

With 43 goals and 25 assists in 53 matches for Miami, the Argentine icon continues to perform at an elite level. His presence on the pitch remains a game-changer, making every Inter Miami match a must-watch event.

The match is set to kick off at 3:30 p.m. CT at Allianz Field, where Lionel Messi and Inter will face a tough road test against Minnesota United. With Messi joined by former Barcelona teammates Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba, the visitors bring plenty of quality, and the home side will need to stay disciplined to contain their dynamic attack.

Inter Miami’s confirmed lineup

Inter Miami will take the field without Luis Suárez, who is unavailable due to personal reasons, as confirmed by coach Javier Mascherano. Youngster Allen Obando is expected to step into the starting XI in his place.

• Inter Miami: Óscar Ustari, Marcelo Weigandt, Gonzalo Luján, Noah Allen, Fernando Redondo, Jordi Alba, Sergio Busquets, Yannick Bright, Telasco Segovia, Benjamin Cremaschi, Lionel Messi.

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With Busquets anchoring the midfield and Messi leading the attack, Miami will look to maintain its aggressive, possession-based style despite the absence of Suárez.

Messi has recorded four goals and two assists in seven league appearances, in addition to five goals and one assist in the CONCACAF Champions Cup, where he has led Inter Miami to the semifinals.

Minnesota United: Can they contain Messi?

Minnesota United understands that limiting Messi’s influence is key to securing a result. Their backline will need to remain compact and disciplined, closing down space and avoiding the costly mistakes that the Argentine thrives on exploiting. Containing Messi may be the goal — but few teams have managed to do so effectively.