“A very special game to end the preseason“, said Lionel Messi via social media. After all, it was a special reunion for the Inter Miami ace, who was facing his boyhood club. Just like fans, even Newell’s players were in awe of Messi’s brilliance. Although he couldn’t get on the scoresheet, he orchestrated much of Inter Miami’s plays. But, his presence on the pitch was cut short as he was subbed off in the 60th minute. Messi had an injury-ravaged pre-season, and hence, this early substitution did cause a few concerns. Gerard Martino has now issued an update on the situation.

After Messi’s substitution, Inter Miami took the lead in the 64th minute. However, Newell’s Old Boys equalized, and the match ended in a draw, thus ending Inter Miami’s pre-season with just 1 victory in 7 games!

‘Little by little’, Martino reveals Lionel Messi plan amid injury concerns

The Inter Miami boss delivered a positive Lionel Messi update in a recent press conference. He said, “I see him fully recovered. It is true that we are playing him little by little. Tonight he played almost 60 minutes and the idea is that he arrives well prepared for the [league] debut on the 21st.” The Inter Miami captain played 30 minutes in the previous game against Vissel Kobe. Judging by Martino’s comments, it seems the coaching staff wants to manage the 36-year-old’s playing time to avoid the risk of another injury.

It was during the Al Hilal game that Messi felt discomfort in his hamstrings. Following an MRI scan, his presence in the ‘Last Dance’ was limited to just 7 minutes. However, it was the match against Hong Kong XI that made the headlines. Lionel Messi did not play in it and his no-show caused significant backlash. In fact, petitions were launched to ban him from visiting China again!

Trending

Lionel Messi’s Heartwarming Gesture Toward Fan Earns Serena Williams’ Husband Alexis Ohanian’s Seal of Approval

May 08, 2024 04:33 AM EDT

Rob McElhenney Passes Over Jason Kelce as Wrexham Co-owner Eyes Another Philadelphia Eagles Star for Soccer Switch

May 08, 2024 12:00 PM EDT

“[Kylian] Mbappe Is Not..” – Vinicius Jr Put On Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo’s Level After Champions League Heroics

May 09, 2024 12:45 PM EDT

Cristiano Ronaldo Sums Up Al Nassr’s Thrilling Comeback Victory Against Al Akhdoud in 5 Words

May 10, 2024 03:34 AM EDT

David Beckham Reveals Tom Brady’s Reaction To His Netflix Roast- “I Messaged, ‘Are You Okay?'”

May 09, 2024 09:00 PM EDT

Get instantly notified of the hottest Soccer stories via Google! Click on Follow Us and Tap the Blue Star.

Follow Us

Fortunately, the injury was a minor one, and Lionel Messi returned in the next game. However, he couldn’t influence Inter Miami’s results as they were winless in the next 2 games. With the MLS season starting on Feb 22, Martino would need his entire squad at their best. Fortunately, it looks like another key player is also set to be available following an injury.

Tata Martino hopes Busquets will be ‘ready’ for the season opener

Inter Miami has a lengthy injury list with long-term absentees like Facundo Farias, Benjamin Cremaschi, Robbie Robinson, and more. However, the recent knock to Sergio Busquets was quite a concern. The Spanish suffered a horror tackle in the Vissel Kobe match and was forced to withdraw in the first half itself. However, it seems like the injury is not as serious as initially expected.

“He’s Holding Back This Team” – Inter Miami Slumps as Lionel Messi & Luis Suarez Fire Blanks at Newell’s Old Boys Friendly; Fans React

Martino said regarding the midfielder, “If the start of the league was tomorrow, he (Busquets) could play, but he’s not going to play. So we will protect it and get it ready for next Wednesday’s game.” Inter Miami is undoubtedly a better team with Busquets controlling the tempo. Thus, his availability will have a crucial role in the game against Real Salt Lake.

Can Lionel Messi & Inter Miami beat Real Salt Lake? Give us your predictions for the match below.

WATCH THIS STORY: Max Verstappen joins Lionel Messi in creating special historic feat