Argentine megastar Lionel Messi led the 2014 FIFA World Cup runners-up to glory, clinching the World Champion title at the Qatar World Cup in 2022. He further cemented his legacy by securing a record eighth Ballon d’Or and being named FIFA’s Best Player of the Year 2023, earlier in January.
Even at 36, Messi continues to dazzle at Inter Miami. His magic and charm haven’t diminished, as evidenced by his Florida-based team kicking off their MLS 2024 season with a win over Real Salt Lake last month. However, a recent injury might force him to miss a handful of games.
Tata Martino addresses Lionel Messi injury
After a forgettable season, finishing second-last in the league’s table and failing to secure an MLS playoff spot, Lionel Messi-captained Inter Miami has made an impressive start this season. Currently, they sit at the top of the Eastern Conference, amassing 10 points in five games, including three wins and a draw.
The former Barcelona star has made five appearances for the Herons, netting as many goals and providing two assists across all competitions. A notable highlight includes a pair of goals in the two-legged CONCACAF Champions League encounters against MLS rivals Nashville, leading to a 5-3 aggregate victory and advancing to the quarterfinals of the competition.
Unfortunately, the 36-year-old Argentine sustained a minor hamstring injury and was rested for the game against CF Montréal after being substituted off early in the Champions League tie. Consequently, he missed the 3-1 victory over DC United. Recently, Miami’s boss, Tata Martino, provided an update on Messi’s condition.
He said, “Messi’s injury must be dealt with week by week, and we will evaluate it, what is clear is that there is a goal with him, which is to play in the Concacaf quarterfinals. He has a muscle injury. The selection issue is for the people of the national team to talk about.”
Lionel Messi to miss upcoming friendlies for Argentina
Lionel Messi’s recent muscle injury may impact his ability to participate in Argentina’s international friendlies during the FIFA International Break in March 2024. These matches, scheduled against El Salvador on March 22nd and Costa Rica on the 26th in America, serve as crucial preparation for the Copa America 2024 showdown in June.
Reportedly, both the Albiceleste and Inter Miami have agreed that the forward should use the international break period to recover from his latest injury setback, avoiding any rush in his return. This decision comes in light of crucial forthcoming fixtures for both club and country. Consequently, Messi will be sidelined from the upcoming action in the next few weeks.
