Inter Miami Navigates Leagues Cup Without Messi

Inter Miami faces a high-stakes challenge in their Leagues Cup quarterfinal clash against Tigres, and they'll have to do it without their superstar, Lionel Messi. The Argentine maestro has been left out of the squad for the decisive match after missing a crucial training session, a move that highlights the ongoing concern surrounding his muscular issues.

Inter Miami Navigates Leagues Cup Without Messi

This isn't the first time Messi has been sidelined. He's already missed two matches with similar complaints, and despite logging a strong 45 minutes against the Los Angeles Galaxy over the weekend—contributing a goal and an assist—the club is taking no chances. For coach Javier Mascherano, the priority is to manage Messi's health for the long term. While a spot in the Leagues Cup semifinals is on the line, the bigger picture involves the grueling domestic season and a push for the top spot in the Eastern Conference.

The good news for the Herons is that their squad has grown in strength and depth. The recent addition of midfielder Rodrigo De Paul has provided a significant boost, with the World Cup winner already tallying three assists across all competitions. This newfound depth gives Mascherano the flexibility to rotate the squad and rest key players like Messi when necessary.

With just a couple of games remaining in August before a short break, Inter Miami's focus is on the final stretch of the regular season. They currently trail FC Cincinnati by seven points in the Eastern Conference but hold three games in hand. A healthy Messi is non-negotiable for their title aspirations, and every minute he can play in the league will be crucial. For now, the team must prove it can win without him and continue its march through the Leagues Cup. The gamble is that resting him now will pay off when it matters most.