With only 10 days to go until the MLS regular season kicks off, Inter Miami is facing the possibility of missing their superstar Lionel Messi. The team reported that Argentina’s famed number 10 has sustained a hamstring injury during a recent friendly match, a 2-2 draw against Barcelona SC in Ecuador. Despite scoring a goal and providing an assist in that match, Miami is exercising caution regarding his return, deeming it a standard muscle injury.
“Messi did not train on Wednesday, February 11th, due to a muscle strain in his left hamstring that he picked up during the game against Barcelona SC, and he has continued to experience symptoms since then,” Miami stated in an official announcement.
The season opener for Miami poses a tough challenge as they are set to battle Heung-Min Son, Dennis Bouanga, and Los Angeles FC on February 21st at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum—both teams being frontrunners for the MLS Cup. As Messi aims for his third consecutive MVP award, Miami may need to navigate the early part of the season without its reigning MVP.
At 38 years old, Messi is also eyeing the role of coach for Argentina at the 2026 World Cup hosted in the US, Canada, and Mexico, making it crucial for coach Javier Mascherano and the team not to rush his recovery. Prioritizing a full season of healthy play for Messi is imperative, as it would be more beneficial in the long run given the extended nature of the MLS season.
This situation presents a chance for the rest of the team to enhance their creativity and confidence, especially with new addition German Bertelame potentially taking the lead. Last season, Messi made history with 29 goals and 19 assists—ranking as the second-highest scoring contributor in MLS history—tying with Sebastian Giovinco as the only player to have led the league in both goals and assists.
Miami will compete in three tournaments this year, an upgrade from last season’s four, which included their participation in the Club World Cup. The club is set to reach the Round of 16 in the Concacaf Champions Cup, alongside competing in the League Cup and MLS matches. Coach Mascherano will need all hands on deck, especially since the MLS season may continue during international breaks, excluding World Cup matches.
The new Miami Freedom Park is scheduled to open in April, and the club hopes to have Messi play there soon. Having signed a contract extension until 2028, playing in a dedicated soccer venue rather than the current Fort Lauderdale stadium will significantly enhance the club’s allure. This football-focused complex symbolizes a new chapter for Inter Miami, which Messi has already propelled to new heights, including two trophies and a spot in the Club World Cup finals.
Fan Take: This news is crucial for soccer fans as Messi’s presence significantly raises the profile of Major League Soccer. If he misses starts, it could impact not only Inter Miami’s season but also the league’s overall appeal to a global audience, emphasizing the need for careful management of star players.
