The potential hurdles for Leo Messi and Inter Miami

Inter Miami, a rising star in MLS, is facing a significant challenge due to the impending international break. The team's upcoming match against Sporting Kansas City on September 9 will be a daunting test

Chirag

September 7, 2023

The impending international break casts a shadow of concern over Inter Miami, the rising star of MLS. This break from league action, a common occurrence in the US soccer calendar that deviates from Europe’s timeline, couldn’t have come at a worse time.

The absence of the iconic Leo Messi looms large, promising to leave an indelible mark on the team.

Numbers don’t deceive; Messi’s impact has been seismic. Not only did his arrival breathe life into a struggling Inter Miami, but his immediate prowess on the field was nothing short of astonishing. In just 11 games, Messi netted 11 goals and provided five assists, becoming the heartbeat of the team’s offence.

Now, as Messi heeds the call of the Argentine national team for South American qualifiers, Inter Miami faces more than just a player deficit.

Their upcoming clash against Sporting Kansas City on September 9 will be a daunting test. With Josef Martinez and Robert Taylor also away on national duty, the team’s hopes rest on the shoulders of Faucundo Farias and Leonardo Campana, who recently showcased their scoring prowess against LAFC.

Sergio Busquets, taking on leadership responsibilities, acknowledges the void Messi leaves behind. While the prospect of Messi’s return against Atlanta United offers hope, uncertainty lingers, and Inter Miami braces for a challenging period ahead.

Sergio Busquets worriedly commented on the absence of seven-time Ballon D’or winner “Hopefully we can continue in the same dynamic, although without Leo it will be quite difficult because he makes the difference in goals and assists.”