Fort Lauderdale — Inter Miami will have to take the field without star footballer Lionel Messi in their opening Major League Soccer (MLS) Cup match scheduled for February 21. Messi is unlikely to recover in time for the game due to a strain in his left hamstring.
The Inter Miami squad confirmed that Messi is currently dealing with the injury and undergoing treatment. The two-time consecutive MLS Most Valuable Player had scored a goal in a match played in Ecuador last week prior to a training session. However, he experienced discomfort in his hamstring during the second half and had to leave the field.
The club further stated that his return to training in the coming days will depend on his recovery and overall fitness. Messi’s absence would undoubtedly be a significant setback for the team. His importance to the club is evident from the fact that Inter Miami extended his contract for three additional years last October.
