In a mid-week match of the MLS 2024 season, Inter Miami will host Atlanta United for match number 17 of the campaign. The side is currently at the top of the Eastern Conference standings with 10 wins and four draws from 16 matches so far. In their recent fixture against Vancouver Whitecaps, the Herons registered a 2-1 victory in the absence of their star players like Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez. But the side is unbeaten in the league when Lionel Messi takes the field. So, fans would be hoping for the 2022 World Cup winner to play in as many games as possible to win them their first league title. Lionel Messi Spotted at Inter Miami Training Ground With David Beckham Ahead of MLS 2024 Match Against Atlanta United (See Pic).

Atlanta United on the other hand are 12th in the Conference standings, having played just 14 matches so far. They won three and lost seven matches in that run allowing 17 goals in the process. Atlanta United has a record of 4 wins and three losses in 12 meetings against Inter Miami so far. The last two meetings between the two clubs have been high-scoring affairs. In July of 2023, Miami earned a clean sheet at home after a 4-0 victory over Atlanta. Lionel Messi was instrumental in those games and could again prove to be the deciding factor. Let us check whether Lionel Messi will play or start in the Inter Miami vs Atlanta United MLS 2024 Match.

Will Lionel Messi Play Tonight in the Inter Miami vs Atlanta United MLS  2024 Match?

Inter Miami is different side with and without Lionel Messi. Although they have secured some wins without the Argentine magician, Inter Miami struggled to create opportunities in the final third. But coach Tata Martino has very pleasing news for the Inter Miami fanbase. In a pre-match conference, the coach revealed that Messi is set to play for the Herons on both Wednesday against Atlanta United and Saturday against St. Louis CITY SC before departing for Copa America. Argentina Forward Julian Alvarez Addresses Lionel Messi’s Retirement Plans Ahead of Copa America 2024 Friendlies.

Messi will link up with La Albiceleste on Sunday in Miami, as Argentina's pre-Copa America camp will be held in South Beach. With ‘the rest’ to the key players in the Vancouver fixture, Inter Miami will be able to control the match from the start if they have Lionel Messi, Suarez and Sergio Busquets back in the starting lineup. We can expect LM10 to take the field and put his side in a better position before leaving for the Copa America 2024.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on May 29, 2024 10:32 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).