Lionel Messi’s final Inter Miami game before heading to the Copa America with Argentina has now been revealed.
The 36-year-old attacker is set to compete in what might be his final international tournament with the South American giants this summer, with Messi keen to retain the Copa America for Argentina having won the competition in 2021.
Given that MLS takes place on FIFA’s winter schedule, though, Inter Miami will be without Messi for as many as six games if Argentina goes far enough in the Copa America, with the Herons also likely to be without Luis Suarez.
And Messi’s final game for Inter Miami has now come to light.
Messi to play for Inter Miami two days before Argentina’s Copa America camp starts
As per Gaston Edul, Messi’s final game with Inter Miami before Copa America will come against St. Louis City SC on June 1st, two days before Argentina’s training camp for the competition starts.
With three MLS fixtures to go between now and Messi’s departure to join up with his national team, Inter Miami will want to claim as many points as possible before their star player is gone for the month.
Indeed, Inter Miami fans know they are going to struggle with the reigning Ballon d’Or holder absent, especially if Messi manages to drag Argentina all the way to the Copa America final.
And with the Herons currently top of the Supporters’ Shield standings, there’s a real chance that Messi could return to Florida with Inter Miami knocked off their perch, such is the Argentine’s influence.
Inter Miami need to prove they can survive without Messi
Messi’s departure for the Copa America has been a hot topic amongst Inter Miami circles in recent weeks, and the time is soon upon us when the forward will leave for Argentina.
And for the Herons during the month or so where Messi will be gone, the Florida franchise will want to prove that they can win games without the captain and star attacker, with Inter Miami guilty of being too reliant on the forward.
Which is why this summer will see Inter Miami look to change the narrative, with Tata Martino’s side more than good enough to pick up wins between the Copa America and Messi’s return in late July.