Inter Miami takes the field again today, and the stakes are certainly through the roof. It is the final game vs Atlanta United and the final opportunity for Lionel Messi and Co. to advance in the MLS playoffs and potentially secure the MLS Cup. As the clock ticks, concerns rise regarding the Herons’ numerous injured players. And the biggest question looms around Sergio Busquets.
Busquets reportedly sustained an injury during the first game against Atlanta United. Although he played through that match, he was absent from the second. Moreover, he hasn’t participated in any training sessions since then and also missed the final practice leading up to today’s pivotal encounter.
But the big question remains- can he play the match? Well, Tata Martino recently gave a clear answer to this question. Delivering disappointing news for fans of Inter Miami, Martino revealed Sergio Busquets will regrettably not take part in today’s matchup. He revealed that the Spaniard is still facing discomfort from the blow and simply isn’t clear to play.
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🚨 Busquets’ Condition is Concerning!
I asked Inter Miami coach Tata Martino when the sidelined Busquets and Bright could return to play.
Martino said Bright could be back for the next round if Inter Miami advances while Busquets remains a question mark.#InterMiamiCF #Messi𓃵 pic.twitter.com/gYg9AShAgK
— Franco Panizo (@FrancoPanizo) November 8, 2024
As for when he will return, Martino could not provide a timeline. Even if Inter Miami successfully makes it past this round, there remains uncertainty about whether he would be available for future matches. Losing such an important player heading into a critical game is certainly a major setback. Unfortunately for Inter Miami supporters, it’s compounded by several other injuries within the squad rather than just Sergio Busquets’ absence alone.
Inter Miami’s other major injury concerns alongside Sergio Busquets
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In Inter Miami’s training session, Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez, and Jordi Alba were all present, indicating that the star trio is ready to play in the upcoming match. However, several players did not take part; alongside Sergio Busquets, David Ruiz, and Yannick Bright also missed the training.
Tata Martino also provided an update on Yannick Bright for the Atlanta game. And unfortunately, his case is also similar to Sergio Busquets as he will also be sitting out the match. However on a positive note, it is confirmed that he will be available to play in Inter Miami’s next game, should they qualify.
Regarding David Ruiz, although Martino didn’t offer a definite update on his status, there is a strong likelihood he may also be sidelined for this match. Reports suggest he could make a return by mid-November. With these injuries impacting their lineup, things certainly appear challenging for Inter Miami heading into Game 3. It will be intriguing to see how tonight’s game unfolds.
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Can Inter Miami overcome the odds without Busquets, or is this the end of their playoff dreams?
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Can Inter Miami overcome the odds without Busquets, or is this the end of their playoff dreams?
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