<p>Lionel Messi scored a spectacular goal in a thrilling match between Inter Miami and Colorado Rapids in his return. However, the late collapse of the Herons overshadowed his injury comeback.</p>



<p>In their first-ever matchup, <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/xavi-to-mls-rumors-swirl-after-recent-inter-miami-slump/">Inter Miami</a> and the Colorado Rapids played to a 2-2 tie at Chase Stadium. </p>



<p>The team’s captain, <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/apple-counting-on-messi-to-promote-mls-not-champions-cup/">Lionel Messi</a>, had a triumphant comeback and scored Inter Miami’s first goal. Leo Afonso, the first-round choice from the MLS SuperDraft, also scored to give Miami a 2-1 lead before Colorado tied it up near the end.</p>



<p>The encounter also saw the season-opening assists from David Ruiz and Franco Negri. The latter was returning to the squad after an injury that had sidelined him since June 2023.</p>



<h2>How did Inter Miami fare in first half?</h2>



<p>As compared to their starting eleven in the first leg of the <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/fine-soon-messi-and-inter-miami-clash-with-monterrey-boss/">CONCACAF Champions Cup quarterfinals last week</a>, Inter Miami made seven changes for this clash.</p>



<p>At the outset, Drake Callender was in goal, with David Ruiz, Ryan Sailor, Noah Allen, and Franco Negri forming a four-man defense.</p>



<p>Julian Gressel, Tomas Aviles, and Lawson Sunderland were the starting midfielders, while Shanyder Borgelin and Afonso were the attackers who partnered with Leonardo Campana. </p>



<p>Also, after overcoming complications from a sports hernia operation in January, midfielder Benjamin Cremaschi made his 2024 team debut.</p>



<p>It had been a close contest up until the first half, when the Herons took a major knock. Just before halftime, Leonardo Campana exited the game because of an injury. </p>



<p>He is the latest offensive player to miss time due to injury, joining Robbie Robinson, Facundo Farias, and Robert Taylor at the medical table.</p>



<p>Despite little improvement, the situation deteriorated further as the Rapids grabbed the lead minutes before the break. </p>



<p>The Herons’ Ryan Sailor sent Rapids winger Kevin Cabral tumbling in the penalty area. Rafael Navarro then took the penalty that followed and put them ahead going into halftime.</p>



<h2>Messi returns in second half with immediate impact</h2>



<p>Nevertheless, spectators at Chase Field did get some good news after the break: Messi replaced Lawson Sunderland. Just as quickly, the Argentine made an impression.</p>



<p>After a long layoff, he returned to action in the 58th minute and scored a spectacular goal from beyond the box, sparking the Herons’ comeback. Two minutes after that, he set up Leo Afonso for a goal with a beautiful assist.</p>



<p>Nevertheless, a pattern emerged: Miami would eventually concede. Once again, Miami’s rival scored in the last minutes of regulation time; this time, it was Cole Bassett of Colorado who scored an equalizer in the 88th minute.</p>



<p>The two sides played to a tie and a point each, although Tata Martino’s club will probably see this as a defeat. For the third game in a row and four matches overall, Inter Miami has failed to secure a victory.</p>



<p>“I think we keep committing errors that cause us to leave points on the board…It’s typical of not having a reading of the match, of the moment, of being out of position and it surely costs us”, Tata Martino <a href="https://www.intermiamicf.com/news/match-recap-inter-miami-cf-secures-draw-at-home-against-the-colorado-rapids" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">said after the game</a>.</p>



<p>Photo credit: IMAGO / ZUMA Wire</p>

Inter Miami still winless despite Messi's return from injury

Lionel Messi scored a spectacular goal in his return. However, the late collapse of the Herons overshadowed his injury comeback.

Inter Miami still winless despite Messi's return from injury - World Soccer Talk

<p>According to Michelle Kaufman, who covers Inter Miami, Apple is banking on Messi to promote MLS, not the CONCACAF Champions Cup.</p>



<p>This was part of the agreement he made when signing with Inter Miami in the first place.</p>



<p>In this week’s edition of “<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?si=NIr77-8cAxeJit7u&amp;v=INB1wu-yK8g&amp;feature=youtu.be" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Inside Inter Miami</a>,” a podcast produced by Kaufman’s newspaper, The Miami Herald, she said:</p>



<p>“MLS is counting on Messi to promote their league, not to promote the [CONCACAF] Champions Cup. They’re expecting him to be on Apple TV when Inter Miami is playing New York, Colorado, Columbus and all those [other] teams. I mean that was the idea.</p>



<p>“I’m sure that the Apple executives, when they’re getting the non-Messi version of the team, that is not what they really want. They want Messi on the Apple [TV]. They want Messi on the iPhone, and they want Messi on the iPad. So, they want Messi everywhere on the i-products.</p>



<p>“If it’s the non-Messi version of the team, even though it has other good players, at some point I think the Apple executives will get a little frustrated if [Messi] is basically saying, ‘Hey, I’m just going to play everything else is my priority and the MLS is secondary to me.’ That’s not going to sit well after a certain number of games.”</p>



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<h2>MLS not profiting from Miami’s run in Champions Cup</h2>



<p>The Champions Cup and Major League Soccer may both benefit from Inter Miami’s success by increasing their global profile. No matter the tournament, <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/unprecedented-feat-messi-crowned-most-popular-athlete-in-us-20240223-WST-491328.html">Messi</a> will always be the center of attention.</p>



<p>As an example, 1.75 million people saw his Leagues Cup debut with Inter Miami. In any case, that’s only for Spanish-speaking viewers; the first matchup with Cruz Azul was broadcast in English on <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tv/mls-season-pass-key-dates-in-2024-20240110-WST-482294.html">MLS Season Pass</a>.</p>



<p>Thus, it’s safe to say that people will watch the Argentine perform in more important games if trophies are at stake. But how exactly this will help Major League Soccer is still <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/mls-needs-messi-and-miami-to-have-success-in-champions-cup/">up for debate</a>.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="800" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20240406_WST_499718_imago1043293365h-1200x800_f1e9c5cf.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=800" alt="" class="wp-image-499812" srcset="https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/04/imago1043293365h-1200x800.jpg 1200w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/04/imago1043293365h-300x200.jpg 300w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/04/imago1043293365h-768x512.jpg 768w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/04/imago1043293365h-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/04/imago1043293365h-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure><figcaption>Inter Miami’s strong run in the CONCACAF Champions Cup isn’t pleasing everybody</figcaption></figure>



<p>The CONCACAF Champions Cup only provides MLS teams with an opportunity to play additional games. However, it does not directly benefit the league.</p>



<p>Unlike in the other cases, MLS isn’t trying to cash in on the Champions Cup’s massive audience. The Leagues Cup, on the other hand, was an MLS production that ran on MLS Season Pass, the same service that shows Major League Soccer games. The Champions Cup, however, has been unkind to Major League Soccer teams.</p>



<h2>Messi absent from majority league games in 2024</h2>



<p>Making a name for themselves there, Inter Miami might increase traffic to MLS Season Pass. But Messi and the team would be better off if they stayed focused on MLS, the league allegedly thinks.</p>



<p>The 36-year-old has been a no-show for <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/messi-injured-again-time-for-inter-miami-to-be-honest-with-fans/">four of the seven league matches so far</a>. He has missed matches against DC United, Montreal, New York Red Bulls, and New York City FC so far this season.</p>



<p>In Saturday’s encounter between Inter Miami and the Colorado Rapids, Lionel Messi will return to play after a nearly month-long absence, according to The Athletic.</p>



<p>Playing in the 3-1 Champions Cup victory against Nashville, the club captain limped off with a hamstring injury. His performance was hindered after scoring only 50 minutes into the encounter.</p>



<p>Earlier this week, Messi was close to returning for the Champions Cup encounter against Monterrey, according to the source. Nevertheless, he remained on the sidelines.</p>



<p>Photo credits: IMAGO / Icon Sportswire : IMAGO / ZUMA Wire</p>

Apple counting on Messi to promote MLS not Champions Cup

According to Michelle Kaufman, tech giant Apple is banking on Messi to promote MLS instead of the Champions Cup

<p>Amazingly, for someone so young, just sixteen years old, Lamine Yamal is already considered one of Barcelona’s top players, and Lionel Messi is his inspiration.</p>



<p>The teen’s first season with the Catalan powerhouses has been nothing short of spectacular. He apparently owes it to <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/fine-soon-messi-and-inter-miami-clash-with-monterrey-boss/">Lionel Messi</a>.</p>



<p>From last August to the present, Yamal’s status with the Blaugrana has undergone tremendous adjustments. He was hardly a benchwarmer for the first squad last season. However, he became the club’s youngest player when he made his debut in April of last year against Real Betis.</p>



<p>The teenager has made the most of the chances that have presented themselves to him in the months following. In particular, securing the starting spot on the right flank has become easier for him with Raphinha’s injury. So in the time after, he became an integral part of Xavi Hernandez’s playing group.</p>



<h2>Yamal and Messi follow the same diet</h2>



<p>Now, the 16-year-old star talked about his growth in stature and weight, saying that he is working to become the best player he can be. Among the people who helped spark this transformation was, unsurprisingly, Lionel Messi.</p>



<p>He revealed to <a href="https://www.mundodeportivo.com/futbol/fc-barcelona/20240405/1002221632/lamine-yamal.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mundo Deportivo</a> that he had gained 6 kg of muscle thanks to a program <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/barcelona-tv-schedule/">Barcelona</a> put him on. Like Lionel Messi did when he made it big in Catalonia, he has been increasing his fish consumption as part of his training regimen.</p>



<p>“I’ve gained about four kilos in weight and two centimeters in height in 2024. I’m at 1.81m now. Before, I used to go with my friends and eat whatever I wanted. Now, I follow the club’s advice. And I drink lots of water. I try to eat more fish because before it is more meat, and from here, I haven’t changed [my diet].”</p>



<p>Following a program tailored to his youth, he also said that he only lifts weights to the extent that the physios instruct him. The Spanish international’s recent success is clearly attributable to the alterations he made to his nutrition. It is safe to say that it has allowed him to perform at a high level.</p>



<h2>Yamal on possibly inheriting Messi’s iconic No. 10 kit</h2>



<p>Many believe he will follow in Messi’s footsteps to the top of the sport as he is a product of the same La Masia program. That led to speculation that he may replicate the famous eight-time Ballon d’Or winning player by donning the number 10 shirt in Catalonia.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="800" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20240406_WST_499724_imago1002553566h-1200x800_54913a36.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=800" alt="" class="wp-image-499794" srcset="https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/04/imago1002553566h-1200x800.jpg 1200w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/04/imago1002553566h-300x200.jpg 300w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/04/imago1002553566h-768x512.jpg 768w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/04/imago1002553566h-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/04/imago1002553566h-2048x1365.jpg 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure><figcaption>Messi’s legacy carries into the fabric of Barcelona’s No.10 shirt and Yamal wants to add to that</figcaption></figure>



<p>Since Ansu Fati went on a season-long loan to Brighton, the No. 10 jersey is now empty. &nbsp;While <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/psg-offer-barcelona-218-million-for-wonderkid-lamine-yamal/">Yamal</a> is aware that his compatriot will get his kit number back when he returns, he admitted that he would want to wear it starting from next season.</p>



<p>“As you said, Ansu is the number 10 but if in the end he is not still here, it would be a source of pride. It would be a dream for any child to be Barcelona’s number 10. Nobody in this world would say no, but it’s something that the club has to manage.”</p>



<p>The promising youngster said he couldn’t wait for the PSG encounter and even made a prediction for the Paris leg. “[I’m approaching it] with great enthusiasm. It’s my first quarter-final tie and it’s a dream to be able to play in them.</p>



<p>“We’re all plugged in thinking about Wednesday’s game, which is going to be one of the most important of the season. We know that we have to play the way we play, to do our game, and to dominate them. I think we will win 1-0, with me scoring!”</p>



<p>Photo credits: IMAGO / Pressinphoto : IMAGO / ZUMA Wire</p>

Messi motivated Yamal to develop, aims to wear iconic No. 10 kit

Lamine Yamal is already a star, and he wants to carry on the legacy of Lionel Messi by wearing Barcelona's No.10

<p>There is another potential Barcelona reunion in the works at Inter Miami. As if having Messi, Suarez, Busquets, and Alba at Miami was not enough. There are whispers that <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/no-more-drv-pnk-stadium-inter-miamis-stadium-gets-renamed-20240221-WST-490903.html">Inter Miami</a> may be tempted to give <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/xavi-i-dont-enjoy-time-as-barcelona-coach-20240203-WST-487253.html">Xavi</a> the chance to succeed <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/inter-miami-cannot-win-when-lionel-messi-does-not-play/">Tata Martino</a> as manager this summer.</p>



<p>In 2024, Martino will be under even greater pressure to produce additional hardware, after supervising a historic Leagues Cup triumph last season. However, this season the squad has struggled under Martino’s guidance. Interestingly, he has also had his share of managerial experience with the Blaugrana.</p>



<p>Without Lionel Messi, the Argentine coach Tata Martino has completely lost touch with what it takes to win. It was surely devastating to lose 2-1 to Monterrey at Lockhart Stadium in Fort Lauderdale on Wednesday night.</p>



<p>In addition to the defeat against the Mexican side, as of late, Inter Miami also went down against New York Red Bulls by a score of 4-0. A 1-1 draw with one of the weakest Major League Soccer teams, New York City FC, hasn’t helped things either.</p>



<p>Messi left Miami’s 3-1 Champions Cup win against Nashville on March 13 due to a hamstring injury he sustained. He has been out of action and hasn’t set foot on the field for the Herons since. The 36-year-old even skipped Argentina’s March internationals to focus on his recovery.</p>



<p>Still, word on the street is that this dismal run of results without the former Barcelona captain might spell doom for his compatriot down the road.</p>



<h2>Reunion with Xavi possible?</h2>



<p>A miraculous turn of events has allegedly put Xavi Hernandez and Lionel Messi’s spectacular reunion at Inter Miami within reach. Xavi is widely believed to be seeking a new challenge in MLS when he leaves his management position at Barcelona in the summer.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="670" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20240405_WST_499593_Busquets-Xavi-1200x670_d23353b9.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=670" alt="" class="wp-image-499690" srcset="https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/04/Busquets-Xavi-1200x670.jpg 1200w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/04/Busquets-Xavi-300x168.jpg 300w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/04/Busquets-Xavi-768x429.jpg 768w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/04/Busquets-Xavi.jpg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></figure>



<p>Many were hoping that the great midfielder would bring back the Camp Nou golden days of 2009-2015 with a new era. Still, things have not gone according to plan. So, he recently announced that he <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/who-could-replace-xavi-at-barcelona-4-top-names-emerge-20240128-WST-486069.html">would be leaving after the season’s conclusion</a>.</p>



<p>After a turbulent time as <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/barcelona-tv-schedule/">Barcelona</a>‘s manager, the 44-year-old decided to leave despite winning <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/la-liga-tv-schedule/">La Liga</a> last season. He appears to have crumbled under the intense scrutiny of one of the most demanding roles in sports.</p>



<h2>Stress-free environment compared to La Liga</h2>



<p>Xavi isn’t ruling out a return to the sidelines, as reported previously by El Chiringuito, even though he intends to take a break from coaching. “Xavi wants to stop for a year but there have been contacts with Inter Miami. If an interesting offer arrives, he will accept it,” they said.</p>



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<p><a href="https://twitter.com/elchiringuitotv/status/1752134571024396325" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">El Chiringuito</a> went on to say that the Herons had supposedly already made contact with the Spaniard. An important consideration seems to be the attraction of rejoining Messi, Luis Suarez, Sergio Busquets, and Jordi Alba. All of them played together at Barcelona at one point in their careers.</p>



<p>The stress and negativity that came with Xavi’s position at Barcelona were major factors in his decision to leave. <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/where-to-watch-mls-on-us-tv-and-internet/">MLS</a> isn’t as well-known or as competitive as La Liga on a worldwide scale. Therefore, from Xavi’s perspective, it would be prudent to move there.</p>



<p><em>PHOTOS: IMAGO</em>.</p>

Xavi to MLS rumors swirl after recent Inter Miami slump

Another Barcelona reunion in the works at Inter Miami? The club may be tempted to give Xavi the chance to succeed Tata Martino this summer.

<p>Lionel Messi and his Inter Miami teammates got into a heated altercation with the Monterrey coach, setting the stage for a fiery rematch.</p>



<p>Even without the Argentine, <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/unprecedented-feat-messi-crowned-most-popular-athlete-in-us-20240223-WST-491328.html">Inter Miami</a> looked like the superior club for an hour of Wednesday’s match. But losing a player in the <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/concacaf-champions-league-tv-schedule">Champions Cup</a> quarterfinal home match against Mexican powerhouse <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/inter-miami-takes-steps-after-low-ticket-sales-for-monterrey-game">Monterrey</a> cost them 2-1.</p>



<p>In the 65th minute, Miami midfielder David Ruiz was sent off for a second yellow card for an unnecessary foul. Thus, Monterrey scored twice in the ensuing play. In the 69th minute, Maximiliano Meza broke the deadlock for the Mexican side playing away. Then before the final whistle, Jorge Rodriguez scored the match-winner.</p>



<p>Since <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tv/mls-needs-messi-to-renew-contract-to-boost-mls-season-pass-20240306-WST-493433.html">Messi</a> strained his hamstring in the Champions Cup match against Nashville on March 13, he has missed four consecutive games. Coach Tata Martino rested many important players, including him, for the match against Montreal on March 10.</p>



<p>Thanks to him, the squad has gone perfect in five games this season. However, without him, they have dropped three in a row. Nonetheless, the injury didn’t stop the 36-year-old from making headlines in Mexico.</p>



<h2>Messi and Inter Miami take issue with Monterrey</h2>



<p>Messi allegedly lost his temper after the match. Reportedly, Luis Suarez, Jordi Alba, Tata Martino and Messi got into an altercation with Monterrey staff and match officials after the match.</p>



<p><a href="https://twitter.com/fersch_4/status/1775730428411810193" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Fernando Schwart of FOX</a> reports that Messi and company went to the referee’s office to voice their disapproval of many calls during a closely contested match. Additionally, they disagreed with Monterrey coach Ortiz’s remarks about perceived partiality made before the game.</p>



<p>“Everything surrounding Messi can influence both sporting and non-sporting decisions. Obviously, I don’t know if it harms us, but the business doesn’t favor us [Monterrey]. Sportingly, we’ll win. After that, I can’t control other things,” the 46-year-old coach <a href="https://www.tudn.com/futbol/concacaf-champions-cup/fernando-ortiz-ojala-messi-este-para-la-vuelta-y-poder-disfrutarlo-video" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">said previously</a>.</p>



<p>The incident then escalated into a brawl in the locker room between the two sides. In addition, Monterrey had asked CONCACAF for a report outlining all of the occurrences, both on and off the field.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="670" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20240405_WST_499534_Tata-Martino-Miami-1200x670_1f54de33.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=670" alt="" class="wp-image-499643" srcset="https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/04/Tata-Martino-Miami-1200x670.jpg 1200w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/04/Tata-Martino-Miami-300x168.jpg 300w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/04/Tata-Martino-Miami-768x429.jpg 768w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/04/Tata-Martino-Miami.jpg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></figure>



<p>The Rayados have thus formally complained about the Herons to CONCACAF, according to <a href="https://twitter.com/FavianRenkel/status/1775927774064324864" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">TUDN</a>. Luis Suarez and Jordi Alba, two players for Inter Miami who sided with Messi in the argument, are also included in the case.</p>



<p>Monterrey hopes to get the matter resolved before the second game of the series, which is scheduled for April 10 in Mexico. They are pursuing punishment against the club and Tata Martino’s players. Indeed, if charged with specific offenses, it may affect Inter Miami’s performance in the second leg.</p>



<h2>Monterrey coach says Champions Cup is still wide up for grabs</h2>



<p>Ortíz addressed a <a href="https://twitter.com/ASMexico/status/1775731438559572450" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">query over the veteran’s absence</a> after critically evaluating his team’s performance in Fort Lauderdale. But he left out any reference to the supposed event.</p>



<p>“I have said it, and I will say it again. I consider him to be the best player in the world of all time. Unfortunately, he couldn’t be here tonight. I hope he’s back for the return leg and I can enjoy it. It is up to us to make sure we are in the next round, the series is still wide open.” </p>



<p><em>PHOTOS: IMAGO</em>.</p>

Fine soon? Messi and Inter Miami clash with Monterrey boss

Lionel Messi and his Inter Miami teammates got into a heated altercation with the Monterrey coach, setting the stage for a fiery rematch.

<p>Saturday’s 1-1 draw at home against New York City FC saw Inter Miami drop points for the third time in the last four games. The lone win in those games came against DC United in a performance where Luis Suarez scored two goals to get the three points. Yet, the pair of losses and the draw have not come against strong teams. Instead, the club lost handsomely on the road against the New York Red Bulls and at home against Montreal. The one consistency with these games is the lack of Lionel Messi in the <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/inter-miami-tv-schedule/">Inter Miami</a> squad. </p>



<p>The club has tried to ensure Messi is available for the big games throughout the season. For example, the ongoing CONCACAF Champions Cup yields a concerted effort out of Miami, as seen with its defeat of Nashville SC in the Champions Cup Round of 16. Miami manager Tata Martino has rested Messi to ensure he is fully fit for that competition. For example, he sat the Argentine against Montreal before starting Messi against Nashville three days later.</p>



<p>So far this season, Messi and Inter Miami have been prioritizing CONCACAF Champions Cup over MLS. As a result, many Inter Miami season ticket holders have missed seeing Messi play in as many games as usual (CONCACAF Champions Cup tickets are not included). Plus, MLS Season Pass subscribers have missed out on seeing Messi as much this season too. CONCACAF Champions Cup games have been shown exclusively on FOX Sports (in English), and not Apple TV.</p>



<h2>Inter Miami needs Messi</h2>



<p>If there is one thing resting Messi has shown, it is that the club is wildly dependent on the World Cup winner. That is not overly surprising. Teams regardless of talent or competition rely on their biggest players. Moreover, other clubs have used Messi as a means to success. Barcelona floundered without its captain in the squad. The season after he left, the Catalan club was ninth in the league at the one-third mark of the season.</p>



<p>The severity of those Barcelona struggles echoes onto Inter Miami currently. With Messi in the squad for specifically <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/mls-tv-schedule/">Major League Soccer</a> games, Inter Miami is cruising. Two wins and a draw had Inter Miami shoot up the MLS table early on. Messi, unsurprisingly, had a major hand to play in that success. He assisted in the season-opening win against Real Salt Lake before scoring in second-half stoppage time at LA Galaxy. Then, he scored a brace at home against Orlando City.</p>



<h2>Inter Miami is a different team without Lionel Messi</h2>



<p>Without Messi’s calming presence and creative threat, Inter Miami is a shell of itself. Even in the <a href="https://youtu.be/__AZudwyXhY?si=tQSwsXuItYi1SElX" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">win against DC United</a>, Inter Miami’s goals came after scrappy moves forward, often on the counter-attack. One of the key differences is the fact that Inter Miami may hold possession, but Messi makes use of the ball. Having Sergio Busquets consistently in the midfield ensures Inter Miami has a base to build on. Likewise, Luis Suarez will provide a finishing touch. </p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="670" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20240401_WST_498574_Suarez-NYRB-1200x670_3e49520d.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=670" alt="" class="wp-image-498577" srcset="https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/04/Suarez-NYRB-1200x670.jpg 1200w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/04/Suarez-NYRB-300x168.jpg 300w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/04/Suarez-NYRB-768x429.jpg 768w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/04/Suarez-NYRB.jpg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></figure>



<p>Messi is the bridge that allows the possession of Inter Miami to become goals. In the 4-0 loss at the New York Red Bulls, Inter Miami held 70% of the ball, but Miami only mustered two shots on target. Likewise, Inter Miami dominated possession against Montreal. Yet, the two sides were level on shots, with Montreal winning by one goal.</p>



<p>That has been the best part of Messi’s skill set. His dribbling ability allows him to pick up the ball deep from someone like Sergio Busquets. He carries it forward into the opponent’s territory where he can deliver it to Luis Suarez or finish it himself. The lack of Messi separates Inter Miami into three categories. There is the forward group with Suarez and Leonardo Campana. They are separated for much of the game with the midfield and Sergio Busquets. Finally, the defensive crop of players, which has been struggling with and without Messi this season, is on an island behind the midfield. </p>



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<h2>The negative outlook for Inter Miami</h2>



<p>Inter Miami struggling while Messi misses games due to rest or slight injury provides a preview of how a more serious injury would hinder the club. In a way, Tata Martino is protecting the club from what it is currently suffering from. As Messi continues to age, his availability will continue to dwindle. MLS seasons, especially one when Inter Miami is looking to make a deep run in the CONCACAF Champions Cup, are long, and Miami could <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/how-many-games-will-messi-play-in-2024-for-inter-miami-20231205-WST-475025.html">play as many as 60 games this season</a> if all goes to plan. Having already missed over half of the games in MLS play, it will be interesting to see if Miami continues this trend. </p>



<p>Once the CONCACAF Champions Cup passes by early June, one would think Messi will become more available. However, commitments to the Argentina national team make the possibility of fielding Messi regularly in MLS unlikely. That will set up struggles for Inter Miami throughout the season in league play.</p>



<p><em>PHOTOS: IMAGO</em></p>



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Inter Miami cannot win when Lionel Messi does not play

Another game dropping points has highlighted the struggles Inter Miami will face if it continues to rest Lionel Messi.

<p>Inter Miami midfielder Federico Redondo suffered a knee injury while on international duty with the Argentina U23 national team. He will likely miss eight weeks of action in the latest of multiple long-term injuries of Inter Miami. Due to apparent stress and strain on his knee, Redondo tore his LCL (lateral collateral ligament), a key ligament that stops the knee from bending abnormally. </p>



<p>In his absence, midfielders like Julian Gressel and Lawson Sunderland will have to step up and fill in the massive void Redondo has left.</p>



<p><a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/inter-miami-tv-schedule/">Inter Miami</a> has a tough schedule coming up, with games against <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/nycfc-tv-schedule/">New York City</a>, <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/colorado-rapids-tv-schedule/">Colorado</a>, and <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/sporting-kansas-city-tv-schedule/">Sporting Kansas City</a> looming. Redondo’s absence could also have a huge impact on their <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/how-to-watch-the-concacaf-champions-league-on-us-tv/">CONCACAF Champions Cup</a>‘s hopes, as he’ll miss Inter Miami’s home-and-away tie against <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/monterrey-tv-schedule-for-us-viewers/">Monterrey</a> in the quarterfinals.</p>



<p>In an official statement, Miami confirmed his injury. “Redondo has suffered an injury to his left lateral collateral ligament (LCL) and is expected to be sidelined for approximately eight weeks.”</p>



<h4>Redondo’s absence has a huge impact</h4>



<p>Redondo, who left Argentino Juniors for Inter Miami <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/redondo-joins-inter-miami-debut-earlier-than-expected-20240224-WST-491550.html">in a $8 million deal</a>, has made four appearances for Inter Miami. After inking a contract that will take him through December 2027, many saw the Argentine as a core piece of Inter Miami. </p>



<p>He holds possession well, is confident in his touch, and has the physicality to bully big forwards off the ball. Thanks to his silky playing style and solid vision and passing, scouts labeled him the new Sergio Busquets. For an Inter Miami squad that struggled with conceding goals and keeping teams out of the penalty area, Redondo was the perfect purchase.</p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="670" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20240329_WST_498182_Redondo-injury-1-1200x670_1f047ec5.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=670" alt="" class="wp-image-498291" srcset="https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/Redondo-injury-1-1200x670.jpg 1200w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/Redondo-injury-1-300x168.jpg 300w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/Redondo-injury-1-768x429.jpg 768w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/Redondo-injury-1.jpg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure><figcaption>Federico Redondo celebrates with Inter Miami teammates Lionel Messi and Sergio Busquets. Inter Miami tied this game with Nashville in a 2-2 draw in the CONCACAF Champions Cup.</figcaption></figure>



<p>Inter Miami is struggling with a wave of long-term injuries to their stars. Lionel Messi is <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/injury-woes-will-messi-play-for-argentina-in-us-friendlies/">out</a> with a hamstring injury. Key players like Facundo Farias, Benjamin Cremaschi, and Nicolas Freire will all miss playing time due to various injuries.</p>



<h4>Inter Miami’s success</h4>



<p>Inter Miami’s activity in the transfer market has paid off immensely. They signed Redondo, Luis Suárez, Gressel, and scouted countless youth from the college and academy levels. They’re second in the Eastern Conference with the most goals scored out of any MLS team so far. They also look like contenders to take home the CONCACAF Champions Cup, with crucial matches against Monterrey CF. Although the injuries are a setback in Inter Miami’s road to a title, they can still win it all.</p>



<p>“The good news is that the season is young and Inter Miami has the tools to go far. They’re second in the East, preparing for a Champions Cup quarterfinal and are scoring without Messi,” ESPN analyst Luis Miguel Echegaray <a href="https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/39821258/arsenal-vs-manchester-city-preview-young-stars-kobbie-mainoo-endrick-messi-inter-miami-mls">wrote</a> in a column. Now, they have to see who they are without him so when he comes back they’ll be stronger for it.</p>



<p>This Messi-led squad looks like true contenders to take home the 2024 MLS Cup. Alongside top teams like Columbus, Minnesota, LA Galaxy, and Philadelphia, Inter Miami is an exciting team to watch.</p>



<p><em>PHOTO: IMAGO / Agencia-MexSport</em>.</p>

Federico Redondo injures knee, out for eight weeks

Inter Miami midfielder Federico Redondo tore his LCL on international duty with the Argentina U23 national team.

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