Lionel Messi could make a triumphant return to the pitch Saturday evening for Inter Miami, an assistant coach has revealed.
WHAT HAPPENED?
After exiting their March 13 match against Nashville SC in the CONCACAF Champions Cup due to injury, the Argentine has since been sidelined. He missed the March international window for La Albiceleste, and Inter Miami’s first leg loss in their recent CCC match to CF Monterrey. However, Saturday could mark his return if his fitness levels allow him to feature.
WHAT JAVI MORALES SAID
“He’s getting better every day, like Tata Martino said,” assistant coach Javi Morales told reporters. “He’s day by day, we’re going to see how he feels today, then we’ll make a decision for Saturday. He trains every day with the physio and on the field. Sometimes, depending on how he feels, he trains with the team and the physio. But lately, he’s been participating in the training sessions so he’s getting better.
“We’re going to see how he feels at training. If he feels good, I’m sure Tata will want to count on him [on Saturday] whether it’s 10 minutes, 15 minutes or 45. We want to have him. We’re going to do the best for him, that’s the most important thing. Based on the game tomorrow, we’re going to make a decision first, then we’ll see what happens Wednesday.”
As for the Herons’ congested schedule of late, the Miami assistant chimed in mentioning how they include the player in these conversations for the benefit of both parties.
“When we play Saturday, Wednesday, Saturday, Wednesday, it becomes a matter of having constant conversations with these players on how they are feeling,” he added. “Then, together, we make a decision. They are fine physically, so we shall see what decision we make.”
THE BIGGER PICTURE
If Messi can mark his return to the pitch Saturday, it will be an automatic boost for the Herons. They’ll need his brilliance on and off the ball, as well as his leadership in their attack. More importantly, though, if they want to advance into the semifinals of the Champions Cup, they’ll need him for as long as possible in leg two vs Monterrey.
WHAT NEXT FOR MIAMI?
The Herons take on the Colorado Rapids Saturday evening in a cross-conference clash. Ex-Manchester United assistant Chris Armas will look to lead his club to glory over David Beckham’s Miami in a highly anticipated match. Then, their eyes will move towards the leg two tie with Monterrey on Wednesday.
