Lionel Messi‘s absence against the Vancouver Whitecaps was unexpected. The playmaker did not have any previous injury concerns and Inter Miami’s record without La Pulga has been shocking and a major concern for their fans. Besides, around 50000 away supporters attended the game hoping to catch a glimpse of the soccer icon. During the game, Vancouver supporters expressed their outrage, “Where is Messi?” Considering how high the ticket prices were for the game, can you blame them? And now, coach Tata Martino has offered a surprise apology for the same.

In the post-match presser, Martino said, “I don’t think I have to apologize but we are very sorry for not being able to travel with our stars.” Notably, Inter Miami was missing not just Lionel Messi but Luis Suarez and Busquets as well. Fortunately, the absence of the Barcelona trio did not hurt the Herons too badly.

Robert Taylor and Leonardo Campana who replaced Lionel Messi and Suarez respectively, delivered the goods. Taylor opened the proceedings in the 38th minute with a powerful right-footed strike. Campana who has found minutes hard to come since the arrival of Suarez, offered a glimpse into his talent in front of goal. In the 54th minute, Campana scored a smart finish to make it 2-0 to the Herons. Vancouver did score in the 72nd minute via a penalty but Martino’s side managed to hold on and secured all 3 points.

Unfortunately for Vancouver fans, Lionel Messi was not even at BC Place stadium to cheer on his mates. The playmaker with Luis Suarez was watching their sons Thiago and Benjamin play at the Miami academy. The duo didn’t show any signs of physical discomfort. Hence, this begs the question, “Why didn’t Messi take the flight to Vancouver?”

The real reason behind Lionel Messi’s absence against Vancouver Whitecaps

Lionel Messi has had an injury-plagued season and has missed 8 games already this campaign. When it was revealed that La Pulga was not in the squad to take on Vancouver, fans speculated a new injury concern for the soccer icon. After all, he showed signs of discomfort in the recent training sessions. Yet, it turns out that the Inter Miami captain is totally fit and has no new injury.

Besides Lionel Messi, Suarez and Busquets were also rested for the game. The rationale behind the move is that Inter Miami has a match on May 30th. Considering the tight schedule, the decision was made to rest the three players who have played a lot of games back-to-back. It also makes sense considering that the trio are above 35 and need their minutes managed accordingly. Fortunately, this means that Miami fans can watch Messi in action soon. For those at BC Place though, it could be a long wait to see the soccer icon in the flesh.