'He's Fine, But...': Inter Miami Gaffer Mascherano Opens Up On Messi's Availability Ahead Of Orlando Trip
Javier Mascherano revealed that Messi would miss his side's Florida derby against Orlando, as he continues to recover from a muscle injury he picked up against Necaxa.
Lionel Messi is set to sit out Inter Miami's MLS encounter against Orlando on Sunday rivals as the World Cup-winner continues to recover from a muscle injury he sustained during the Florida-based side's Leagues Cup clash against Necaxa, coach Javier Mascherano said Saturday.
'No, Leo will not be available tomorrow," Mascherano said.
'He is fine, but obviously it would be crazy to risk taking him to Orlando because of all that is ahead," Messi's Argentine compatriot continued.
'We are optimistic that he will soon return with us," the former Argentina and Barcelona defender added.
Miami posted a 3-1 triumph over Pumas UNAM on Thursday in their final group stage encounter of the Leagues Cup despite Messi's absence as goals from Rodrigo De Paul, Luis Suarez and Tadeo Allende helped Miami fight back after Jorge Ruvalcaba had put the Mexican side ahead.
Messi, the magician from Rosario who led Argentina to their third World Cup title at Qatar in the 2022 edition of the quadrenial event, was substituted in the 11th minute of Inter Miami's Leagues Cup match against Mexican side Necaxa at Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale after a collision with opposition defender Alexis Pena. Miami secured a 5-4 victory on penalties following a 2-2 draw at the end of regular play.
After the Florida Derby against Orlando, Inter will host the LA Galaxy on August 16, followed by a Leagues Cup quarter-final against Mexico's Tigres UANL three days later.
Inter are currently fifth in the MLS Eastern Conference, eight points behind leaders Philadelphia and one point ahead of Orlando, with three matches in hand.
Messi, an eight-time Ballon d'Or winner, led Miami to the Leagues Cup title in 2023 after joining the Herons. He has scored a league-best 18 goals in MLS matches this season.
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