Matchday 15 of the MLS is currently underway, with Vancouver taking on Inter Miami. The pale Herons have traveled to Canada in search of crucial points as they remain weakened by the absence of star players Lionel Messi, Sergio Busquets, and Luis Suarez. Yet, as both sides are tussling on the field, the spotlight has turned to the stands, where home fans are vocally expressing their frustration over the absence of La Pulga. 

The BO Place stands are currently filled with chants from Vancouver fans fervently supporting their team while loudly asking one question: “Where is Messi?” This sentiment was captured in a video shared by Canadian-based journalist Rob Williams on X. The home fans, who had hoped to witness the masterclass of the Argentinian superstar tonight, instead feel disappointed by not seeing the Miami skipper fly to British Columbia. However, there is a much graver reason behind his absence.

The reason for Messi’s absence tonight, along with Luis Suarez and Sergio Busquets, is simply a 2,800-mile journey to British Columbia on a 7-hour flight. Furthermore, Miami has a match against Atlanta United just three days after tonight’s game and wants their best squad available. Interestingly, just days before the match, Messi appeared to be in discomfort during the team’s training sessions. A video showed him grimacing multiple times and attending to his left leg during a small-sided game. 

While this raised concerns over his injury, it doesn’t seem to be the case as giving rest to Messi and his former Barcelona teammates would help them recover from fatigue. But Miami shall get used to the No. 10’s absence, as he set to take a lengthy domestic break. 

Lionel Messi missing the Vancouver clash is just a trailer for Inter Miami!

The chants from Vancouver fans are no less than a nightmare for Inter Miami. They might easily get in their head and it is bound to affect their game because David Beckham‘s soccer franchise is already bracing themselves for the worst. Lionel Messi is set to leave the Fort Lauderdale camp to unite with his beloved national team, Argentina, for the upcoming Copa America. He is not alone as Luis Suarez would also join Uruguay for the same.

Both are expected to miss up to seven MLS games for the Florida side between June 20 to July 20. An early leave can also be taken as the CONCACAF-based nations are set to play friendly matches for the tournament warm-up. Certainly, Tata Martino would be required to not let Miami stumble during this time. Even though a star player stepped in to fill in Messi’s absence, it is quite a challenge as they have greatly relied on their star player. 

Perhaps tonight’s clash is just one of the pre-tests for Inter Miami to get used to the absence of Lionel Messi. Let’s hope for a positive result to stay atop the table.