Soccer fans have been hit with a massive setback right before the game between Al Nassr and Inter Miami. With Cristiano Ronaldo already out of the fixture, the game had lost half of its charm. However, it seems like the game is now a dead rubber, with Lionel Messi also pulled out of the match, right before kickoff. According to reports, the Argentine superstar complained of muscular discomfort in his biceps and has been taken off the playing eleven.

It is a significant blow for the fans who hoped to catch La Pulga in action against Al Nassr. Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi have been withdrawn from the match and will not be in the starting lineup. However, it will be intriguing to see if the two sides field their marquee stars in the closing minutes of the game to give the fans what they want!

Lionel Messi dropped from the starting XI against Al Nassr

Inter Miami released their official lineup for the game just minutes ago with a massive change to their squad. Lionel Messi has been left out of the squad after being ruled out of the first team because of an injury issue. Journalist Leo Paradizo was amongst the first to break the news as he took to X claiming, “Messi has discomfort in the biceps femoris. His presence in Inter Miami vs Al-Nassr is in doubt. It is not ruled out. If he plays, it is because of the contractual commitment. It’s being decided.”

The player is on the bench and could make an outing during the second half of the contest. However, it seems like Tata Martino will keep his marquee star fresh for the coming weeks, with the team set to kick-start their MLS campaign following their next set of friendly games.

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While fans might be disappointed with the team’s decision, it is crucial to note that even Al Nassr has dropped Cristiano Ronaldo from their playing eleven, keeping their future fixtures in mind. Both teams want their star players fit for the competitive campaigns and cannot risk aggravating their injuries during a friendly fixture.

READ MORE: Al Nassr vs Inter Miami: Lineups, Predictions, Odds, Stats, Injury News, Streaming & How to Watch Cristiano Ronaldo v Lionel Messi in Riyadh Season Cup

Inter Miami will kick start their MLS campaign later this month as they take on the 22nd of February. The side will hope that Lionel Messi can find his peak fitness before the fixture with the team dependent on the superstar.

WATCH THIS STORY: Cristiano Jr’s Insane Training Schedule