Lionel Messi, the 36-year-old Argentina star, has been a key player for Inter Miami this season, playing every minute of the team’s MLS matches and even in the Concacaf Champions League draw at Nashville SC. However, assistant coach Javier Morales hinted that Messi could be given a rest in the upcoming match against CF Montreal. Morales emphasized the importance of considering Messi’s well-being and making the best decision for the player and the team’s future, as he has been playing full 90 minutes in every game so far.
Concerns about Messi’s Health
Although Messi scored a crucial goal to secure a draw against Nashville, he also suffered a hard tackle on his shin late in the game. While Morales downplayed the impact of the tackle, Messi was later listed as questionable due to a shin issue on MLS’ player status report. This raises concerns about Messi’s fitness and whether it is prudent to give him some rest to avoid exacerbating any potential injuries.
Luis Suárez, another key player for Inter Miami, has also started all four games this season and scored goals in recent matches. Like Messi, Suárez has been playing a lot of minutes and may benefit from a rest to manage his workload effectively. Morales emphasized the need to handle the players’ playing time carefully, especially considering the long season ahead.
Possible Changes in the Lineup
While Morales did not confirm the lineup for the upcoming match, it is likely that Jordi Alba will make a return to the team after recovering from an illness that kept him out against Nashville. The decision to rest key players like Messi and Suárez could lead to some adjustments in the starting lineup, offering opportunities for other players to step up and make an impact.
Inter Miami faces a busy schedule with the return leg against Nashville in the Concacaf Champions League on Wednesday. With key players potentially receiving rest in the upcoming match, it is crucial for the team to manage the squad effectively to ensure optimal performance and avoid injuries as the season progresses. The coaching staff’s decision on player rotation and lineup changes will play a significant role in the team’s success moving forward.
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