Inter Miami assistant coach suggests Lionel Messi might play against Colorado rapids as fitness progresses

After sustaining an injury in a previous match, Lionel Messi has been sidelined but there's hope for his return for Inter Miami's upcoming game against the Colorado Rapids.

Lionel Messi Set To Return To Inter Miami
Johnnie Izquierdo/Getty Images

Following his exit from the March 13 match against Nashville SC in the CONCACAF Champions Cup due to injury, the Argentine has remained sidelined. He was absent during the March international window for La Albiceleste and Inter Miami’s recent CCC match first leg loss to CF Monterrey. However, there’s a possibility of his return on Saturday if his fitness permits.

According to assistant coach Javi Morales, there has been improvement in his condition every day, echoing Tata Martino’s remarks. Morales stated, “He’s day by day, we’re going to see how he feels today, then we’ll make a decision for Saturday. He trains every day with the physio and on the field. Sometimes, depending on how he feels, he trains with the team and the physio. But lately, he’s been participating in the training sessions so he’s getting better.”

“We’re going to see how he feels at training. If he feels good, I’m sure Tata will want to count on him [on Saturday] whether it’s 10 minutes, 15 minutes or 45. We want to have him. We’re going to do the best for him, that’s the most important thing. Based on the game tomorrow, we’re going to make a decision first, then we’ll see what happens Wednesday.”

Regarding the team’s recent packed schedule, Morales mentioned their involvement of the player in decision-making processes to benefit both parties. “With consecutive matches on Saturdays and Wednesdays, we’re in constant dialogue with the players about their condition. Together, we make decisions. As long as they’re physically fit, we’ll see what choices we make.”

If Messi makes a comeback on Saturday, it would significantly boost the Herons. His presence is crucial both on and off the ball, along with his leadership in the attack. Moreover, if they aim to progress to the Champions Cup semifinals, they’ll rely on him as much as possible in the second leg against Monterrey.

Miami will face the Colorado Rapids on Saturday evening in a cross-conference showdown. Former Manchester United assistant Chris Armas aims to lead his team to victory against David Beckham’s Miami in what promises to be a thrilling encounter. Following that, all eyes will be on the second leg tie with Monterrey on Wednesday.

Lionel Messi

Lionel Andrés Messi Cuccittini

Forwarder, Midfielder

ArgentinaArgentina

Age: 37

170 cm

72 kg

Season 2024
Played 7 4 Missed
Minutes 584 83.4 Avg
Goals 9 1.3 Avg
Assist 5 0.7 Avg
Attempt 25 3.6 Avg
Passes 329 47.086.6% AvgSucc
Yellow 0 0.0 Avg
Red 0 0.0 Avg

This season he played in total 3 times for 270 minutes for Major League Soccer.

Lionel Messi scored 3 goals for Inter Miami. He procured one assist. He received no yellow cards and no red cards.

His team is currently 2nd in Major League Soccer. In the last match Inter Miami drew 1-1 against New York City.

Inter Miami performance and stats

Inter Miami

Manager: Gerardo Martino
Rank 1st
Win 6
Draw 3
Loss 2
Goals 26-16
Diff 10

Inter Miami is currently 2nd in the Major League Soccer with 11 points.

In the last 7 games, it has won 3 times, drawn twice, and lost twice. In its last match, Inter Miami drawn 1-1 against New York City.​​

It has a positive goal difference after scoring 14 goals and conceding 10.​

Inter Miami will play the next match in Major League Soccer against Colorado Rapids on Saturday 6th of April in Fort Lauderdale. The prediction is Inter Miami winning the match.​