Tata Martino has shared if Lionel Messi will be fit enough to play for Inter Miami this Saturday against DC United.
The Argentine international missed his first game for the Herons last night in over a month as Messi was rested for Inter Miami’s Florida derby clash against Orlando City SC, with the attacker missing training on Tuesday.
With the game ending 0-0, Martino and company missed Messi’s attacking and creative genius on the night, where the 36-year-old forward could have made the difference had he been fit enough to make the matchday squad.
And the Inter Miami manager has now shared if Messi will be back this weekend.
Messi expected to make Inter Miami squad to face DC United
Speaking to the Miami Herald, Martino revealed that Messi should be fit enough in time to make Inter Miami’s squad to take on DC United this Saturday, where the Herons will be eager to return to winning ways.
Despite losing their streak, Inter Miami remain unbeaten in MLS in their last eight matches, and Messi returning to action on Saturday at Chase Stadium could help the Herons extend this record to nine.
Martino said when asked if Messi will be fit enough to feature for Inter Miami on Saturday against DC United: “Leo had some discomfort, but he trained every day, we did tests and they all came out very good.
“Having three games in a week, with him still in some pain, we felt it was prudent for him to sit out this game. The plan is for him to play Saturday, but we will take it day by day. He trained again [Wednesday] and felt good, but we will not take any risk. We will see how he feels on Thursday and Friday.”
Martino was right to rest Messi for last night’s Florida derby
It would be an understatement to say Inter Miami’s success hinges on Messi’s fitness, with the Herons noticeably worse off when the reigning Ballon d’Or holder is not available for selection.
Yet last night could prove to be the right call in giving Messi the evening off, with Inter Miami in a position where they can’t afford to aggravate any injuries the Argentine international might now have.
Indeed, Saturday’s clash against DC United will be a big one, and Inter Miami will hope Messi will be fit enough to feature in what could be an important fixture in the race for the Supporters’ Shield.