With the continental mega tournament – Copa America 2024 just days away players are on national duties. European stars also have UEFA Euro 2024 tournament going on, leaving the Major League Soccer (MLS) sides short of resources. Inter Miami had signed many stars with very few academy stars playing in the starting XI. The Beckham co-owned side is yet to have a ‘full-fledged’ academy and has to depend on their international stars to deliver in the league. With international tournaments and friendlies, the side struggled with consistency. Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez Top List of Best-Selling Jersey in MLS, Inter Miami Stars Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets Make into Top 25.

Their captain and most influential star Lionel Messi was out of the last fixture against the Philadelphia team. But playing with nine men, Inter Miami survived and ended up winning the match with a 2-1 scoreline with the help of Messi’s namesake - Leo Afonso. Having experienced and talented stars like Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba certainly helped Tata Martino’s side, but the results are not guaranteed. Here are the possibilities of Lionel Messi playing against Columbus Crew.

Will Lionel Messi Play Tonight in the Inter Miami vs Columbus Crew MLS  2024 Match?

Even though FIFA official tournaments are ongoing, Major League Soccer matches won't be on hold. So teams with international players do seek their youngsters to take some additional responsibilities to stay competitive in the league. Inter Miami also has players like Lionel Messi and other stars who make the most impact on the outcome of the matches. They are at the top of the Eastern Conference with Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez leading the multiple stats for them. Lionel Messi Becomes Fastest to Reach 25-Goal Contributions in Single Season of Major League Soccer, Achieves Feat During Inter Miami vs St Louis City SC MLS 2024 Match.

Sadly, Lionel Messi will be on international duty again and he leads Argentina’s title defence at Copa America. Fans who are waiting for Lionel Messi to play in Inter Miami colours again will have to wait for the conclusion of Copa America. Luckily for the Herons, the Argentine magician will not be playing in the Paris Olympics 2024 extending his availability in the later stages of the season.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jun 19, 2024 12:01 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).