It’s just a matter of time before Inter Miami returns to Leagues Cup 2024 action. The Herons will lock horns against Group N’s formidable Tigres UANL at NRG Stadium in Houston. Though both sides have qualified for the knockout rounds with victories over Puebla, either side would be looking to curtain the group stages as toppers and take first place in the East 3 group. While Miami gears up for the challenge, the question looms if Lionel Messi will be playing tonight vs. the Tigres.

It has been more than a month since La Pulga has seen action for his domestic side. The last time he played for the Florida-based club was back on June 2, which saw Miami play a 3-3 draw against St. Louis. The 37-year-old missed a host of MLS games alongside Luis Suarez from June 16 to July 21 as both reunited with their respective nations for the recent Copa America. While Suarez came back to the Miami camp safe and sound, Messi returned after sustaining an ankle injury.

This again made him a long-time absentee for Tata Martino and Co. The former Barcelona star missed the opening Leagues Cup against Puebla. Luckily, goals from Matias Rojas and Luis Suarez saved the day for Miami. However, concerning the upcoming one, Lionel Messi will not be playing against Tigres UANL tonight. Of course, the ankle remains a problem for the former PSG superstar.

Notably, Martino revealed earlier that the Herons’ medical team is assessing Messi’s recovery every week. The Argentinian tactician also mentioned that the 8x Ballon d’Or winner is still undergoing isolated training until he recovers and must wear a walking boot for now. However, the good news is that Messi’s “ankle is getting better and better.”

While this gives a significant boost to Inter Miami, this doesn’t mean that their injury worries end with just Messi!

Lionel Messi is not alone in missing the Inter Miami vs. Tigres UANL Leagues Cup clash

Unfortunately, the injury issues don’t end for Inter Miami here, as Serhiy Kryvtsov remains one of the major absentees. The defender continues to nurse his minor knock. Additionally, more backline injuries for the David Beckham-backed club include Nicolas Freire and Facundo Farias, who are out with ACL issues.

Meanwhile, keeping aside the injuries, Diego Gomez and Benjamin Cremaschi are also unavailable for the Tigres clash. The duo are currently on international duty for their respective nations, contesting the ongoing Paris Olympics in 2024. As for the rest of the players, all are available at the former River Plate manager’s disposal to face the Mexican side.

Regardless of the outcome of today’s fixture, fingers are crossed that Messi can return quickly to action. After the Leagues Cup, Miami will return to basics to resume their impeccable form in the MLS.