Lionel Messi missed tonight’s MLS clash between Inter Miami and CF Montreal due to being rested after Thursday’s CONCACAF Champions Cup match.
The 36-year-old attacker was listed as a doubt for today’s fixture in Florida with Messi picking up a knock earlier in the week against Nashville, with the forward starting every game for Inter Miami this season.
The Argentine international’s fitness has been a major talking point for supporters and pundits this season, with Inter Miami urged to keep Messi rested when needed and not to overwork the winger.
Lionel Messi rested for Inter Miami’s clash vs CF Montreal
And as per an official Inter Miami spokesman via journalist Franco Panizo, Messi will miss tonight’s game against Montreal due to being rested, with Sergio Busquets and Luis Suarez named on the bench.
With Inter Miami in the midst of a grueling four-game run in as 12-day period, it makes sense why the 36-year-old forward has been completely rested for tonight’s match against Florida.
Indeed, the Herons have started the 2024 MLS season in fine form and will remain top of the Eastern Conference regardless of tonight’s result, with Inter Miami already playing an extra game this season.
And for Messi, resting the forward completely is the right way to go, especially with Inter Miami facing Nashville on Wednesday in the second leg of their Champions Cup tie.
Herons have done the right thing tonight with Lionel Messi
Heading into this season, keeping the likes of Messi and Suarez fit was always going to be the number one priority for the Herons if they were to succeed in all competitions.
And whilst there will be some annoyed fans tonight, Messi being named completely out of the squad could prove to be the right decision in the weeks to come.
As we know, Inter Miami have a massive game coming up against Nashville, and having Messi completely rested for that fixture could be the difference between early elimination or a major push towards a first continental title.