Despite a recent defeat in the US Open Cup Final against Houston Dynamo, Inter Miami is determined to keep their MLS 2023 playoff hopes alive. They must win their upcoming match against New York City to stay in contention. Inter Miami is currently 14th in the Eastern Conference and has a chance to move into the top nine, trailing New York City by five points with five games remaining. Lionel Messi, who returned from the international break with undisclosed fitness issues, missed the Houston Dynamo match, adding to Inter Miami's difficulties. The team's tenacity will be put to the test as they attempt to overcome obstacles and make the playoffs. Inter Miami 1–2 Houston Dynamo, US Open Cup 2023 Final: Herons Suffer Defeat Without Lionel Messi (Watch Goal Video Highlights).

Lionel Messi was in fine form before Argentina's international break, tallying 11 goals and eight assists in just 11 games. However, a scar tissue injury sustained during the international break disrupted his rhythm, forcing the Argentina star to leave the game against Toronto FC early in the first half. As Inter Miami prepares for the remainder of the MLS 2023 regular season, fans are waiting for word on Messi's availability.

Lionel Messi demonstrated his dedication and endurance by playing an impressive 600 minutes in August. This surpasses any monthly total since his departure from Barcelona in 2019.  After missing two crucial matches against Houston Dynamo and Orlando City, it is unclear whether Messi will play against New York City. The team and its supporters are hoping for his quick recovery and return to the pitch to help Inter Miami's season. For detailed information, scroll down.

Will Lionel Messi play today Inter Miami vs New York City, MLS 2023 Match? 

In disappointing news for fans, Inter Miami coach Gerardo Martino has stated that both Lionel Messi and former FC Barcelona teammate Jordi Alba are unlikely to play in the upcoming MLS 2023 match against New York City. Martino stated on Friday that it would be unwise for Messi to play against New York City due to the potential risk. Although Messi returned to training on Friday and is being closely monitored by the Inter Miami staff, his participation remains uncertain and is being evaluated on a day-to-day basis. Lionel Messi Aims for Copa America 2024 in Bid To Extend International Career.

Despite Messi's absence in the previous game against Houston Dynamo, Inter Miami did not fare well, losing in the US Cup Final. The upcoming match against New York City, on the other hand, presents a unique challenge. New York City is currently ninth in the league table, making it a formidable opponent. The absence of Messi and Alba adds another layer of complication to Inter Miami's away game. Fans are eagerly awaiting updates on the stars' health and hoping for a quick return to the field.

 

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 30, 2023 03:27 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).