The time has come for Inter Miami to pull up their socks. After investing in some of the best players, like Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez, and other European superstars, the club still can not show the dominance that is expected from them. Courtesy? Messi’s regular absence. However, tonight marks a crucial moment as Miami takes on Monterrey in the second leg of the CONCACAF Champions Cup quarterfinal. But will the skipper turn up tonight after being held back by injury since last month?

Meanwhile, David Beckham’s team has fallen short during formidable challenges. Yes, they bagged the Leagues Cup last year, but that has only proved its dependence on the Argentine. And it seems like that will be the case even today against a strong Monterrey team, who has been firing challenges towards Messi.

Important update regarding Lionel Messi ahead of the match against Monterrey

After losing the first leg of the quarterfinal against the Mexican team without Lionel Messi, Inter Miami prepares to get him back to the team. Lionel Messi will play against Monterrey as per suggested reports after coach Tata Martino’s comments yesterday during the press conference. Martino said, “He is fine. He felt good after playing 45 minutes last Saturday. We still have today’s practice, but apparently the injury is behind him,” claiming la Pulga to be fit.

Meanwhile, Miami’s struggles continued after the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner went down with a hamstring injury last month during their Champions Cup match against Nashville. Since then, the club only managed one win in five games. Messi experienced his second injury in Miami, which came after a scar tissue issue last October that negatively impacted their playoff performance. The team has been cautious with Messi’s playing time ever since. However, Messi would aim to make a difference after Monterrey’s aggressive tactics against them.

Monterrey coach’s aggression to stir up Lionel Messi?

The Mexican team has left no stone unturned to fight against a star-studded Florida team on and off the pitch. After beating them 2-1 in the last game, Monterrey’s coach, Fernando Ortiz, reportedly had a spat with Lionel Messi, and later, its assistant coach Nico Sánchez was seen calling him a dwarf and having the face of a devil. Additionally, the coach revealed that the team will prioritize defense in the second leg, challenging Miami to penetrate their backline.

READ MORE – Joao Felix Refuses to Choose Cristiano Ronaldo Over Lionel Messi as the Portuguese Star Picks Safe Route to Settle the ‘GOAT’ Debate

Therefore, with the Mexican manager’s comments fueling the fire, Inter Miami fans will hope for a raged Lionel Messi tonight. Former USMNT star Alexi Lalas believes these remarks could ignite Messi’s competitive spirit. We have all seen Messi’s dominance when he’s motivated, and many expect a similar performance tonight. Can Messi lead his team to a semifinal berth? Share your thoughts in the comments!

READ MORE – Lionel Messi’s Former Teammate Eyes ‘Attractive’ Saudi League Project, Opening Doors to Potential Move