The conclusion of this month’s international break finally paves the way for domestic action to resume. Inter Miami prepares for its weekend clash against New York City. However, in a worrying update, Lionel Messi remains absent from the training. This update comes from the Miami Herald writer, Michelle Kaufman who posted a clip of today’s training session on social media.

Kaufman reported that La Pulga remains inside the gym instead of being on the pitch. Drake Callender and Diego Gomez, who were away with their respective nations, are back training with the squad.

Notably, Messi has been out of action since the CONCACAF Champions League RO16 Leg 2 clash against Nashville, when he experienced trouble with his hamstring. The 36-year-old has since been sidelined with a right hamstring injury, which led him to miss the last two MLS fixtures against DC United and the New York Red Bulls, with Miami winning 3-1 against United and losing 4-0, to Bulls. Amid this injury period came the international window as well. Messi was absent from Argentina’s friendlies against El Salvador and Costa Rica, which La Albiceleste easily won 3-0 and 3-1, respectively.

Messi’s absence from the training means his teammates will have to face New York City FC without him in the squad. But there are reports that the World Cup winner could be back in the squad for the CONCACAF Champions Cup quarterfinal against Mexican side Monterrey on April 3.

Still, his absence from group training and subsequently the match may not affect the outcome too much. Tata Martino’s side are in 2nd place with 10 points, while New York City is near the bottom with just one win to their name. Hence, it is possible that Inter Miami could also be looking to rest Messi ahead of more important games.

Why could Lionel Messi deliberately stay out of the New York City clash?

Lionel Messi was expected to make his return to action this weekend, but reputed journalist, Gaston Edul reports that the No. 10 is instead aiming for a comeback in the next midweek’s CONCACAF Champions League. La Pulga’s decision to postpone his return is attributed to two main factors. 

Firstly, sitting out Saturday’s fixture against New York City allows him more time to recuperate, with neither Miami nor Messi keen on rushing his recovery from injury. Additionally, the Champions League encounter against Monterrey presents a bigger challenge for the Herons. Given the importance of the opening leg being held at home, Messi will be eager to contribute and establish an advantage.

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With a long season ahead, Martino will be keen to manage Messi’s game time, with La Pulga set to lead Argentina’s defense of the Copa America title in the coming months.

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