Inter Miami’s pre-season tour proves to be a lengthy ordeal. What was touted as beneficial for the David Beckham-owned side has now become a nightmare, plagued by poor results and injuries to players. Even though two games are remaining, the Herons’ skipper, Lionel Messi, is already exhausted from the pre-season chores and wants to ‘return home.’

After clinching their first victory since September 2023 against Hong Kong XI, preparations have begun for Inter Miami, ahead of the impending clash against Vissel Kobe. Following the Japan tour, Miami is also bound to play their last pre-season match against Newell’s Old Boys. However, Lionel Messi seems to be fed up! As per Sakanowa, while addressing the Japanese media before the clash, he said, “I’m a little tired from this whole tour, [I have] a desire to finish up the last game and to return home.”

Lionel Messi failed to make an appearance in the previous match against Hong Kong XI. Despite his eagerness to play, the 36-year-old’s muscle discomfort forced him to witness the 1-4 victory from the sidelines. According to reports, he has an inflammation in his adductor, which he most likely acquired after playing against Al Hilal. He isn’t alone, as Inter Miami has seen the likes of Luis Suarez, Benjamin Cremaschi, Facundo Farias, and Serhiy Kryvtsov get injured within the span of just 5 pre-season games. 

While it is almost certain that the aforementioned stars will miss the clash against Vissel Kobe, let’s hear from Messi if he can make an appearance or not. 

Lionel Messi breaks silence over the availability for Vissel Kobe game

Earlier, Lionel Messi had expressed his desire to play in Japan before making a return. While it initially brought relief to Japanese fans, the Inter Miami skipper later added uncertainty by stating, “I don’t know if I will play tomorrow or not.” This left the Japanese fans hanging as the cloud of uncertainty remained over Messi’s presence. 

READ MORE: Inter Miami News: Lionel Messi & Luis Suarez Join 3 Players in Injury List From Pre-Season Before Vissel Kobe Clash

Perhaps Tata Martino can give the 8x Ballon d’Or winner a few minutes of action. However, it comes with a certain risk: there is a chance that his injury could relapse, potentially worsening his situation. Hence, it’s unlikely that Martino would go down the high road with the MLS commencing later this month. Either way, some important decisions need to be made.

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