After being injured against Necaxa in the 2025 Leagues Cup, Lionel Messi missed two games with Inter Miami. The team managed a comfortable win against Pumas but suffered a resounding defeat against Orlando City. To secure a victory, the Argentine star entered as a substitute in the 46th minute. Despite providing an impressive performance against LA Galaxy, concerns about his physical condition, prompting Inter Miami head coach to make a candid confession.
“The idea was to give him 45 minutes so he could start finding sensations. Clearly, he wasn’t 100% comfortable, but as the minutes went on, he loosened up more. The important thing is he finished the game, and now we’ll see how he feels,” Javier Mascherano said in press conference.
Lionel Messi not only scored an important goal but also provided the assist for Luis Suarez to seal a resounding victory against LA Galaxy. This win boosts Inter Miami to 47 points, positioning them just seven points behind the leader, FC Cincinnati, with three games in hand. For that reason, they will also need to clinch a good streak in the upcoming games.
Inter Miami head coach Javier Mascherano also discussed a crucial aspect of Messi’s impressive professional success. “He wants to play every single game. You have to understand why Leo is Leo. He always wants to be on the pitch. He’s happy there. Sometimes we try to explain to him that we have to go slowly, but when he feels good, he knows himself like no one.” With these statements, he dispels any notion of a relapse in Messi’s injury.
Lionel Messi #10 of Inter Miami CF looks dejected as he leaves the pitch with a injury during the Leagues Cup.
Inter Miami’s lack of depth exposed in recent games
Inter Miami have managed to maintain an impressive winning streak, despite facing occasional setbacks. The team’s recent challenges, particularly regarding bench depth, became evident in both its defeat to Orlando City and its victory over the LA Galaxy. Head coach Javier Mascherano has found his options limited when it comes to making impactful substitutions.
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With Lionel Messi sidelined due to injury, Rodrigo De Paul admirably filled the attacking midfielder role. Although he excelled in this position, his absence in the defensive midfield, where he typically partners with Sergio Busquets, left the team off-kilter. This has underscored the lack of depth in Inter Miami’s roster.
Even though Inter Miami boast quality players like Yannick Bright, Benjamin Cremaschi, and Fabrice Picault, Javier Mascherano’s roster would benefit from additional reinforcements in midfield and defense. This would facilitate better rotation, allowing veteran players to rest, thus optimizing their performance and impact.
