Will Lionel Messi Play Against Monterrey? Tata Martino Provides Confusing Update Ahead of Inter Miami’s CONCACAF Champions Cup Clash

In less than 24 hours, Inter Miami will face off against Liga MX powerhouse CF Monterrey in the CONCACAF Champions Cup. The Herons are coming off a disappointing draw against MLS’ 14th-seeded team New York City. However, the elephant in the room is the availability of Lionel Messi. The playmaker was last featured in the Champions Cup round of 16 tie against Nashville SC on March 13. Previously, the news was that Messi would feature against Monterrey. However, per the new update by Tata Martino, there is a chance that Messi’s return could be delayed, as he confirmed that he doesn’t want to risk the Argentine maestro.

In his recent presser, Tata Martino spoke about Lionel Messi’s availability. He said (translated via Google), “Leo was injured and we have to manage the timing of this injury, we have a very important game tomorrow, but it’s only April, this is just beginning.” With a big chunk of the season remaining, Martino wants his ace to recover fully from his injury. He added, “Tomorrow we will define whether he plays, we will define what is best for Leo, we will not risk Messi.”

Martino issued a similar update a few days ago, saying he was uncertain about Lionel Messi’s return from injury. As such, the star was even left out of the encounter with New York City. The latest update confirms that Messi is still not at 100%. Unfortunately, this will make the Herons’ task much harder.

Monterrey has the most points in Liga MX and has suffered just one defeat in the calendar year. Hence, it will be a tough encounter for the Herons. But ahead of the match, there is something significant to dwell on.

Inter Miami’s damning record without Lionel Messi

With 11 points from seven matches, Inter Miami is second in the Eastern Conference, an excellent performance until now. However, the team is overly reliant on Lionel Messi. The Heron’s record without the Argentine star is just one win in four games (including two defeats). Notably, Inter Miami’s first defeat of the season was against CF Montreal, Messi’s first absence of the season.

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They also faced a heavy defeat against NY Red Bulls (4-0), and the recent draw against New York City (1-1) showed that the Herons are a completely different proposition without their captain. With Lionel Messi on the side, Inter Miami has been undefeated in all competitions. That could explain why Tata Martino is not keen to rush his star player back from injury.

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