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Lionel Messi could feature when Inter Miami host DC United in Major League Soccer on Saturday, 18 May. The Herons are coming off a goalless draw at Orlando City.
Messi missed the game against Orlando after picking up a knee injury against CF Montreal last weekend. In his absence, Inter Miami dropped points for the first time in five MLS games.
Manager Gerardo Martino remains optimistic about Lionel Messi's fitness for the DC game. The Argentine tactician confirmed that Messi has been training but didn't confirm the extent of his current condition.
Gerardo Martino was quoted as saying (via ESPN):
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"He trained well yesterday, and we hope today as well. We will determine his participation for Saturday's game after training, but we're optimistic."
However, Martino's words do imply the fact that Lionel Messi has still not fully recovered from his knee injury. He added:
"There was no intention of resting him. He was feeling well, but then suffered the injury and could not maneuver well with his leg, it bothered him. Yesterday, the injury still bothered him. Touch to the zone was bothersome."
If Messi is deemed fit to play, he's most likely start and lead the attack against DC. The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner could partner alongside Luis Suarez and Robert Taylo in a three-man attack.
It would be tough for Lionel Messi to play the full 90 minutes, though, due to his recent injury. The forward, though, should play some part if he gets a green light from the medical team.
Inter Miami are flying high in the Eastern Conference. They are atop the standings with 28 points from 14 matches.
How has Lionel Messi performed for Inter Miami this season?
Despite some injury concerns this season, Lionel Messi has been Inter Miami's best player. The former Barcelona superstar has been an integral part in his side's great start to the 2024 season.
Messi has contributed 12 goals and 11 assists in 11 games across competitions. That includes 10 goals and nine assists in nine MLS games.
One of Messi's most most influential game came earlier this month against New York Red Bulls. Inter Miami won 6-2 on that occasion with Messi playing a part in each of the six goals his side scored. The Argentina captaian scored once and assisted the remaining five goals.
