Rubbishing Lionel Messi’s ‘Hamstring’ Injury Claims, Inter Miami Boss Tata Martino Continues Optimism

Hours ago, Lionel Messi-less Inter Miami managed to survive the wrath of New York City. The Herons were able to steal points from the away side who were on the verge of snatching a victory. Earlier in the match, tension-inducing reports had circulated regarding Messi’s hamstring injury. But these claims were later refuted by Tata Martino as he brims with optimism about his star player’s return.

Inter Miami struggled without their star player today. Yet, a part of Lionel Messi’s magic seems to have transferred to his teammates, who kept the game alive till the very end.

Tata Martino denies Lionel Messi’s hamstring injury claims straightaway

Earlier, a distressing update emerged regarding Messi’s injury that literally spelled the end of Miami’s hopes for the MLS Cup Playoffs. Journalist Caden DeLisa had asserted that an MRI confirmed a 2 cm hamstring tear, sidelining Messi for the rest of the MLS season. This injury initially occurred during Argentina’s World Cup Qualifier match against Ecuador and worsened during the game against Toronto.

Following the match against New York City, Tata Martino was asked if the hamstring claims were true. Interestingly, the manager was quick enough to rubbish the rumors. He said, “Leo Messi does not have a hamstring injury. He is doing individual training. In the coming days he will join collective training and on Tuesday we will evaluate how he feels and make a decision. We will not take any risks.”

His words were clear enough to suggest that La Pulga doesn’t have a hamstring tear. In fact, the World Cup winner is training individually, and whenever he feels better, the skipper will join his teammates in no time. However, Tata Martino has acknowledged patience is required with Lionel Messi as he is in no mood for taking risks.

Certainly, it is a huge relief for Inter Miami fans. let’s hope he returns to action quickly, as evidently, the Herons are lost without him on the pitch. They were lucky enough to get a point today. What exactly happened against New York City? Let’s dive deeper.

READ MORE: Inter Miami Sign Lionel Messi’s Brother-in-Law as Argentina’s Star’s Influence Grows in USA

Inter Miami survives without Lionel Messi

Inter Miami had a day of mixed fortunes as they settled for a 1-1 draw against New York City. The first half saw both teams test each other but concluded without any goals on the scoreboard. As the second half unfolded, both sides intensified their attacking efforts, and it was in the 77th minute that New York City managed to break the deadlock with a goal by Santiago Rodriguez.

It appeared that Inter Miami’s chances were fading until they rescued a draw with Tomas Aviles’ equalizer in the 90+5th minute. The draw reignited the Miami-based club’s aspirations of making it to the MLS playoffs. Yet, it’s clear that they are grappling with challenges in the absence of Lionel Messi. We can only hope that La Pulga returns to the helm as soon as possible.

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