21 September 2023 , 11:49
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Inter Miami manager Gerardo Martino has admitted Lionel Messi's upcoming availability is set to be limited after being replaced after just 36 minutes in Miami's 4-0 victory over Toronto FC.
Messi was back in the the squad after sitting out last weekend's 5-2 defeat to Atlanta United following his return from international duty. Following Sunday's loss in Georgia, Martino confirmed that the Argentine was suffering from 'muscular fatigue' following an action-packed start to life in Miami.
Despite the concern Messi was back in action on Thursday, but was unable to make it to half-time after being forced off with 10 minutes of the first half to play, as he was replaced by Robert Taylor.
Wednesday's injury led to fears Messi may be unable to play in next week's US Open Cup final against Houston Dynamo. Miami will be aiming to win their second piece of silverware of the season, having already won the inaugural Leagues Cup.
The seven-time Ballon d'Or winner was not the only Miami star who made an early exit against the Canadian side, as his former Barcelona teammate Jordi Alba was also subbed off just moments after Messi left the field. Like the Argentine, Alba was left out of last weekend's loss at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium due to concerns over his fitness.
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Post-match, manager Martino admitted his two star men had 'no chance' of playing in this weekend's clash with Orlando City, but did reassure Inter fans that their injury issues were not 'serious'. There is no chance for them to play the Orlando match," he said.
Lionel Messi return for Inter Miami was a short one"But I do not think there is anything serious or muscle injuries. I think it is just fatigue." Martino's caution surrounding Messi will not come as a surprise to many, with the Miami franchise set for a manic upcoming schedule, which includes a U.S. Open Cup Final clash with Houston Dynamo later this month.
Alluding to this, the Miami manager said: "We have a lot of important matches in a short window of time. "And one of my responsibilities as the coach is to care for my players and help them make the hard decisions that will give us the best chance of keeping everyone healthy during this busy run."
The hectic run continues this weekend when Inter take on their Florida rivals Orlando. Three days later Messi and co will be chasing down their second piece of silverware against Houston, before five league matches in 20 days follow against New York City, Chicago Fire, Cincinnati FC and a double header with Charlotte FC.