Just in time for the 2024 MLS season to begin, Lionel Messi seems to have “fully recovered” from the injury that has delayed his pre-season.
WHAT HAPPENED?
The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner made headlines for his physical condition while on a historic Inter Miami international tour that traveled from El Salvador to Japan via Saudi Arabia and Hong Kong. His withdrawal from a friendly match in the Far East set off an ongoing political and sporting scandal.
WHAT MARTINO SAID ABOUT MESSI:
Despite this, Messi managed to play an hour of the Herons’ last practice match against his boyhood team, Newell’s Old Boys, and he is eager to start the new domestic season in the US. When asked about the status of the Argentine superstar, Tata Martino responded to reporters, saying, “We were hoping for Leo to play 45 to 60 minutes, and he played almost 60 and felt good.” It appeared as though he was totally recovered from the manner he was playing and accelerating. It is intended that he be prepared for the 21st.
THE BIGGER PICTURE:
Inter Miami is still waiting for Luis Suarez to find his spark in the closing third, even though Messi has reached peak pace. Concerning the seasoned Uruguayan striker who has to deal with persistent knee issues, Martino continued, saying, “Physically he looked good, but what impeded his preseason is not enough time working with the group.” Although Leo, Sergio Busquets, and Eduardo Alba are familiar with him, other players—particularly those who will be swarming the attack with him, such as Julian Gressel and Diego Gomez—are not. They should spend more time together.
WHAT NEXT FOR INTER MIAMI?
On February 21, Inter Miami will host Real Salt Lake to kick off their Major League Soccer season. Martino acknowledges that there could be more movement in and out of DRV PNK Stadium before that game due to a reported near to a deal for Argentine player Federico Redondo.
