Lionel Messi was benched by Gerardo Martino in Miami’s tie against Orlando City. The Herons have a crucial Open Cup final against Houston Dynamo coming up and the extent of Messi’s injury is causing concern among fans. One pundit brought into focus the severity of the injury and how Miami could miss the playoffs.

Messi reportedly has been dealing with a right hamstring strain that has kept him out of games. With the gaffer’s recent decision-making and the comments from a Miami player, one thing is for sure: Inter Miami wants to win another title, no matter the cost.

Shock statement on Lionel Messi scares Miami fans

Things are still under the curtain but it seems that Messi’s injury is a problematic one. The Florida-based club now might have to make a tough decision regarding their fixtures. Felipe Cardenas, a pundit and staff writer with the Athletic, made a shocking statement that might cause a fair bit of uncertainty among Miami fans.

In a recent interview, Felipe Cardenas shared his thoughts on the upcoming fixtures of Inter Miami as he said, “Tomorrow we are going to be in front of Tata Martino for the US Open Cup final in the press conference and we are going to know if Messi’s going to play or not. I think if he plays on Wednesday night, there is a big possibility we don’t see Lionel Messi in MLS regular season.”

Cardenas’s concerns are right and it’s high time that Martino makes a decision soon. Considering the injury to Lionel Messi, if Martino chooses to field the Argentine it could very well be his last for this season.

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Looking at Martino’s recent tactics and moves, it’s obvious he’s striving to clinch the US Open Cup trophy. The players too look to be on the same page. With two games in hand in the MLS regular season, the upcoming games will decide the future of the team.

US Open Cup heads towards a thrilling climax

Gerardo Martino benched all of his three major summer signings in a bid to win the US Open Cup. The final in Houston will be a thrilling one. Their best player, Lionel Messi, who helped them clinch the Leagues Cup earlier this year, is likely going to miss out. As a contingency and to battle fatigue issues, Martino even benched Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba in the match against Orlando.

Dixon Arroyo of Inter Miami highlighted Messi’s potential choice: qualify for MLS playoffs or clinch the US Open Cup title. Arroyo stressed winning the Open Cup, recognizing its significance, and hoping Messi could secure it. He acknowledged the dilemma but underlined the value of a championship trophy. Arroyo hinted that Messi might favor the title, given his illustrious track record.

After the US Open Cup final, the next fixture for Inter Miami is also a difficult one. New York City FC has been performing well as they too look to compete for the MLS playoffs. With two games in hand, Inter Miami will be hoping that the Argentine makes a quick recovery.

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