Inter Miami Injury News – Lionel Messi’s Starting Status Remains Uncertain, 5 Players Ruled Out for CONCACAF Champions Cup 2nd Leg Against Nashville

In just a few hours, Inter Miami will return to action. After enduring their first defeat of the season against Montreal in the MLS, the Herons will resume their CONCACAF Champions Cup RO16 journey as they welcome Nashville for the return leg at the Chase Stadium. But amid their full-swing preparations, Tata Martini and Co. have been dealt a major injury blow. Not only is the presence of star player Lionel Messi doubtful, but five players will also be unavailable for tomorrow’s fixture. 

Speaking for La Pulga, there is bittersweet news for Nashville. Per journalist Gastón Edul, though the Argentinian superstar is expected to play tomorrow, it’s in Martino’s hands if he will start with the 36-year-old or sub him in later. This means they can take advantage of his absence but should remain vigilant if he comes on the pitch later. Notably, Messi had missed the previous MLS fixture after the Miami department decided to keep him fresh for Leg 2. 

The skipper was reported to have picked up an injury in the opening RO16 leg after getting a studs-up horror tackle from Nashville’s Lukas MacNaughton. Although Martino had debunked any serious injury concerns just after the match, Messi eventually missed the previous fixture. However, he was also seen in the latest training session. 

It’s no secret that his presence is Miami’s utmost priority, with the previous leg being the biggest proof. After the Florida side went down 2-0 in Tennessee, the former PSG star broke the deadlock and helped his best friend, Luis Suarez, score the equalizer. Certainly, Miami would be eager to have him present at all costs. Yet, it all comes down to Martino, who will make the final call, as he already deals with the absence of five more players.

Which Inter Miami players will miss the CONCACAF Champions League RO16 Leg 2 against Nashville? 

While Lionel Messi remains a doubt, the first on the list to miss tomorrow’s clash is Benjamin Cremaschi. The midfielder has yet to make a return as he is nursing his sports hernia. On the other hand, new signing Facundo Farias and defensive duo Ian Fray and Franco Negri are out as they heal from their knee injuries. Lastly, as per the MLS’ website, forward Robbie Robinson is also ruled out as he is under a severe medical evaluation.

READ MORE: “[Lionel] Messi Tried to Get Something Out of Nothing” – Nashville Star Unapologetic for Studs-Up Horror Tackle on Inter Miami Captain

Notably, all of these injuries came during the lengthy preseason tour. The aforementioned players will take a few more weeks to recover, with no exact timeline detailed. Nevertheless, for now, tomorrow’s clash is the only thing on Martino’s mind. David Beckham‘s club will aim to advance to the next stage of the competition, regardless of whether Messi is present or not.