Already Reached Physical Limit, Lionel Messi Can’t Be ‘Overused’, Says Inter Miami Boss Defending Decision to Bench Him in MLS Debut

The phenom of Lionel Messi has struck MLS. The Argentine has been delivering goals since joining Inter Miami. Messi is the talk of the town, and the fans want to witness the World Cup winner in every Inter Miami game. But is that possible? Inter Miami boss has the answer.

The Herons are back to winning ways in MLS after an 11-game winless streak. It seems the club is continuing its Leagues Cup and US Open Cup form. Lionel Messi has played a massive chunk of the last nine games. However, he started on the bench for his MLS debut, raising eyebrows. But Gerard Martino feels it was the right choice to bench the Argentine.

Inter Miami boss defends benching Lionel Messi decision

The seven-time Ballon d’Or made a much-anticipated MLS debut on Saturday. But to the dismay of the fans, the Argentine started from the bench. Inter Miami boss hinted at the decision recently. Speaking to the press after the US Open Cup semifinal win, Tata Martino pointed to Messi reaching the physical limit.

Martino said, “Leo, like many other players is reaching a physical limit.” He added, “From this point forward, we will evaluate how we approach these next three games.” In an attempt to manage the game time of the former PSG superstar, Martino benched him. It seemed Messi would get the last few minutes after Vice City took a 1-0 lead. But the second-half pressure from the NY Red Bulls meant Martino throwing in Messi at the hour mark.

Messi’s introduction with Sergio Busquets changed things, and the Argentine grabbed a brilliant goal in the 89th minute. It ensured all three points for the Herons. When asked about fans unhappy that Lionel Messi didn’t start the game, Martino said, “I understand everyone wants to see [Lionel Messi] play…we are not to overuse the player…we can’t be swayed by what the people want.”

What next for Inter Miami?

The Herons will play six crucial MLS games before locking horns with Houston Dash in the US Open Cup final. The upcoming MLS games will decide the direction of the club. Vice City is on 21 points from 23 games and is now 14th on the table. Moreover, Miami has three games in hand over FC Toronto, who languishes at the bottom.

READ MORE: “Messi Looks Happier” – After 2 Troubled Years at PSG, Lionel Messi’s Magic at Inter Miami Not a PR Stunt, Claims USMNT Legend

It will be an uphill task for the Herons to reach the playoff places. Messi-led Miami will have to win all the remaining ten fixtures to give themselves a chance of playoff places. Also, the club has to rely on other results too. Nevertheless, Miami has an opportunity to seize a second trophy when they face Houston in the US Open Cup final during the final week of September.

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Where do you think Inter Miami ends the MLS season?