Inter Miami returns for their second-last MLS regular season clash against Toronto FC. Fresh off winning the 2024 MLS Supporters’ Shield with a narrow 3-2 victory over Columbus Crew, the Herons aim to secure another win and three valuable points today as they chase the MLS single-season points record. With just hours remaining before the kick-off, a crucial question comes across everyone’s mind; Will Lionel Messi play tonight?

Well, the Argentinian superstar was more than present in the previous game held at the Lower.com Field, giving yet another clinical performance. The 37-year-old netted a brilliant free-kick to open Miami’s account, shortly adding another to complete his brace before half-time. He even played until 90 minutes and showed no signs of injury. While this surely makes him an undoubtful contender to start the game, that won’t be the case as it may come.

Lionel Messi won’t play tonight against Toronto. This is because Tata Martino may decide to give the World Cup winner a much-needed rest. Most likely he may come in the later stages of the game to change the dynamics. Now, it’s true that Miami has won the Supporters’ Shield, but that doesn’t mean the upcoming clash isn’t an important one. Then again, the match is not so important to at least make him play from the start, or maybe not.

Messi, in fact, isn’t alone; his buddy Luis Suarez will also get to take off from his duties. The Uruguayan forward had already been carrying the torch in the absence of his former Barcelona teammate who had been injured for two months due to a knock on the ankle that was sustained during the Copa America final. Hence, El Pistolero also deserves a rest along with La Pulga.

However, both will certainly return in the starting XI for the final matchday against New England Revolution, where they’ll finally get to celebrate their Supporters’ Shield with their ardent fans. In the meantime for today’s clash, Tata Martino can count on his reserves, except for the injured stars.

While Lionel Messi rests, Inter Miami still awaiting the return of injured stars

The injury list for Inter Miami remains mostly unchanged, though a few key players have made successful recoveries. In defense, Facundo Farías and Nicolás Freire are still out with knee injuries, while forward Leo Afonso and defender David Martinez are both contending with groin issues. Backup goalkeeper CJ dos Santos is also sidelined due to a hand injury.

It’s uncertain if any of these sidelined players will be available in time for the MLS playoffs, as their return dates have not yet been announced. On a positive note, the rest of the squad is fit and ready to take on the final two challenges as Miami aims to finish the regular season as the MLS single-season points record holder.