Lionel Messi Ruled Out of Inter Miami’s Leagues Cup Clash Against Pumas Due to Injury

MIAMI — Inter Miami will be without star forward Lionel Messi for their crucial Leagues Cup group stage match against Mexico’s Pumas UNAM, as the Argentine legend recovers from a minor muscle injury.

Head coach Javier Mascherano confirmed that Messi sustained the injury — described as a “minor muscle issue” in his upper right leg — during Inter Miami’s recent win over Necaxa. The injury is not considered serious, but Messi has been ruled out of Wednesday’s fixture as a precaution.

“Within the bad news, it’s good news,” said Mascherano. “He usually recovers very well from injuries and, above all, normally does so with speed. But clearly, for tomorrow he is unavailable. Then we’ll see how he feels, how he progresses.”

Messi, who currently leads Major League Soccer (MLS) with 18 goals this season, played a key role in Inter Miami’s 2023 Leagues Cup triumph and remains a vital figure for the club.

Inter Miami are in a must-win situation against Pumas in their final group stage game to qualify for the tournament’s quarter-finals. Should they advance, Messi would have approximately two weeks to recover before the knockout round begins.

Miami’s next MLS match is scheduled for Sunday against state rivals Orlando City SC. Messi’s availability for that match remains uncertain.

Read more: Lionel Messi Exits Leagues Cup Match Early with Hamstring Discomfort

Fans will be watching closely as the team hopes to have its talisman back in action soon.