Why Lionel Messi will not feature in Inter Miami vs Montreal MLS clash?

According to reports, Inter Milan forward Lionel Messi could be rested when the side hosts CF Montreal in Major League Soccer (MLS) on Sunday, March 10.

The Herons are returning to the domestic league after securing a late 2-2 draw against Nashville in the round-of-16 first-leg of the CONCACAF Champions Cup in midweek.

Nashville was leading the game 2-0 before Lionel Messi pulled one back in the 51st minute. Luis Suarez scored an injury-time equaliser to share one crucial point on the night.

Also Read: WATCH: Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez involved in heated exchange with opponent in Inter Miami’s draw against Nashville

Lionel Messi injury – Will Messi be available for the tie against Montreal?

During the tie against Nashville, defender Lukas MacNaughton seemingly caught Messi’s left ankle with his studs whilst clearing the ball.

Messi went on to receive treatment on the sidelines from the medical staff and still managed to play the full 90 minutes plus stoppage time.

The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner was incredibly fortunate to escape a serious injury but his participation in the game against CF Montreal tonight still remains a doubt.

Manager Tata Martino will likely not feature Messi for the entire duration of the tie and therefore will rely on the likes of Luis Suarez and Robert Taylor to lead the line in the Argentine’s absence.

The staff believes the game against Montreal would be the perfect opportunity to rest Messi ahead of a demanding schedule.

Inter Miami had a dream start to the MLS season, securing seven points from the first three matches and sitting at the top of the Eastern Conference Standings.

Inter Miami’s possible starting XI: Callender; Sailor, Aviles, Freire, Alba; Gressel, Busquets, Gomez; Messi, Suarez, Taylor