Lionel Messi of Argentina is not part of Inter Miami’s lineup for the MLS regular season clash with New York Red Bulls, according to Sports24’s coverage. The absence adds speculation about his current fitness status while the team prepares to face a strong opponent in a congested schedule.
The game is scheduled for March 23, with kickoff set for 21:00 Moscow time, as Messi continues his recovery from a hamstring strain. Coaches and fans alike are watching closely to see how the star forward progresses and whether he will be cleared to contribute on the field in subsequent fixtures.
Messi arrived in the United States during the summer of 2023 after a two-year spell with Paris Saint-Germain. His transfer marked a high-profile chapter for Inter Miami, and on August 20 of his first season, he helped secure the Leagues Cup, the club’s first major trophy in American competition. In the early stages of that season, Messi appeared in three matches and produced a record of three goals and one assist, signaling his immediate impact on and off the pitch.
Messi achieved global recognition by captaining Argentina to the World Cup championship in December 2022. That triumph marked the first time such a trophy had graced his illustrious career, with seven goals tallied across seven matches, including four penalties. He delivered a memorable double in the final against France, a moment that underscored his enduring influence on the sport. Reports from March indicated that the striker would miss the national team’s March training camp as he focused on recovery and club commitments.
On October 30, Messi collected the Ballon d’Or for the eighth time, cementing his status among football’s all-time greats. The honor reflected years of exceptional performances at both club and international levels, reaffirming his role as a defining figure in modern football.
After two seasons with PSG, Messi’s journey continued in the United States with Inter Miami during the 2023 campaign. He once again helped the team achieve milestones, including adding another trophy in America and contributing in the early games of the season with notable performances. The rapid adaptation and leadership he provided helped raise the profile of Inter Miami and MLS as a whole, drawing attention from fans across North America.
In discussions about Argentina’s national team, a former Benfica player who is widely recognized for his assist contributions is listed among the nation’s most prolific providers. This nod to past players highlights the enduring legacy of Argentine talent and its continued influence on the national squad’s creativity and effectiveness on the field.