Lionel Messi played a full 90 minutes as Inter Miami dropped their last game of the season, in a 1-0 loss against Charlotte FC.
This is the first game the World Cup winner has started for Miami since their 4-0 win over Toronto FC on September 20th. Messi was dealing with a recurring hamstring injury that kept him out for nearly three weeks. He made his full return to the playing pitch with Argentina during a World Cup qualifier against Peru on October 18th.
In what was a game filled with tactical and formation experimentation, Messi was his usual self against Charlotte, tucking inside and trying to make things happen in the final third for the Herons.
Lined up in a 4-3-3, the Argentine played as a traditional attacking midfielder, spending the majority of the game in the center of the field.
The 36-year-old would end the match, completing 74% of his passes and three total shots on 61 touches. There were also a couple of moments where Messi had free-kick and corner-kick opportunities that didn’t quite connect.
Messi will now rest up and look forward to Inter Miami’s trip to China and Argentina’s World Cup qualifiers in early to late November.
Inter Miami and Messi get ready for the 2024 season
Miami ended the year on a sour note against Charlotte. The team tactically looked uninspired and slow. Though Miami was not in playoff contention, it would’ve been ideal for the fans to end the season on a high note.
Ultimately, Miami and Messi will have 2024 to look forward to.
Fortunately, with ex-Barcelona forward Luis Suárez potentially joining the squad in the winter, Miami is preparing to bring in players that will be able to help them challenge for MLS Cup next season.
All in all, 2023 didn’t end the way they wanted, but if the plans for 2024 are any indication, then Miami might be a contender.