The MLS is an exclusive league and has even been made more special by the arrival of Lionel Messi last July. The Argentine maestro ditched a Barcelona reunion and a bumper contract in Saudi Arabia to team up with David Beckham’s Inter Miami franchise. After a disappointing first season in terms of wins and losses, Lionel Messi is now gearing up for his first full season in the MLS.
With the new league season fast approaching, Lionel Messi may miss several games in his first full season in the American soccer league. The World Cup winner will miss these matches due to his international commitments with Argentina.
Lionel Messi to miss few MLS matches due to international duty
Lionel Messi’s mid-season arrival at Inter Miami last season limited him to just six MLS games. Although he lifted the Leagues Cup with Inter Miami in his first few weeks in America, injuries and international commitments limited him to just six league games for the franchise, which consequently reduced the club’s chances of making the playoffs.
The Argentine magician is gearing up for his first full season in the MLS, and it’s been reported that he may miss up to seven MLS games due to his international commitments with Argentina.
According to Marca, Lionel Messi will miss games against DC United, NY Red Bulls, Philadelphia Union, Columbus Crew, Nashville, Charlotte, and FC Cincinnati. Two of these games are scheduled for March, while three more are scheduled for June. Messi will miss two more in July while he’s on international duty.
Lionel Messi will be relishing the chance to get back to his absolute best when the regular MLS season resumes in February. He will even be more excited about the new season, with the arrival of his best friend, Luis Suarez, which is set to lift his spirits even further.
When will Lionel Messi play his first MLS 2024 match?
The MLS will resume its regular season on February 21st, leaving fans of the league excited, especially with the continuation of Lionel Messi in the league. Each team will play 34 games, with Inter Miami looking to have a great season and make it to the playoffs at the end of the season.
Inter Miami will kickstart their MLS season with a high-profile game against Real Salt Lake on February 22nd. This will be followed by an away clash with LA Galaxy four days later, before they face Orlando City at home on March 2nd.
Lionel Messi’s first game of the season will come in the club’s first game of the season against Real Salt Lake.
Lionel Messi could have returned to Barcelona on loan during the off-season but decided to stay and prepare for the new season by staying in the best shape possible. He also reassured the fans by penning an emotional message to them after the season concluded.
Can Inter Miami make the playoffs next season?
