April 06, (THEWILL) – Lionel Messi’s injury status remains a pressing concern for Inter Miami as they prepare to host the Colorado Rapids this weekend. The Argentine superstar has been sidelined with a hamstring strain since March 13, and his availability for Saturday’s match is still up in the air.
Miami fans had hoped to see Messi back on the field against Mexican side Monterrey in the Champions Cup on Wednesday, but their talisman was ultimately left out of the lineup as a precautionary measure. “He is feeling better each day and we will re-evaluate for the Colorado game and the return leg against Monterrey next week”, said Miami coach Tata Martino.
Messi’s absence has not boded well for Inter Miami after their strong early-season form, as the team attempts to maintain a solid start to the 2024 MLS campaign. The 36-year-old has already netted three goals in three matches, while teammate Luis Suarez has tallied five, including Miami’s lone strike in a 1-1 draw with New York City FC.
This weekend’s clash will mark the first meeting between Inter Miami and the Colorado Rapids since the former’s MLS debut in 2020. Rapids coach Chris Armas is wary of the threat posed by Miami, regardless of Messi’s participation. “Three in the back, four in the back, with Messi, without Messi, but regardless they’re a really good team and an even better team at home”, Armas said.
The Rapids have shown signs of improvement after a dismal 2023 season, highlighted by their thrilling 3-2 comeback win over favoured LAFC last week. New signing Djordje Mihailovic scored twice late in the match to secure the victory, but the team will be without several key players for the trip to Florida, including Jonathan Lewis and Jasper Loffelsend, who are sidelined by knee and hamstring injuries respectively.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
