Inter Miami’s recent defeat to Montreal left fans questioning why Lionel Messi was absent from the match. Tata Martino, the team’s manager, shed light on Messi’s absence, clarifying that it was a strategic decision rather than an injury concern.
The 2024 season kicked off with a busy schedule for the Herons, and Martino emphasized the necessity of rotation due to the high number of fixtures. Despite Messi being a football legend, the manager believed that giving him a break was crucial for his overall fitness, especially after a disrupted pre-season plagued by fitness issues.
Lionel Messi Was Listed As Questionable
Messi was listed as questionable before the game, reportedly nursing a slight knock. The decision to rest him was a precautionary measure to ensure the 36-year-old forward’s well-being amid the demanding start to the season.
In a post-match interview, Martino revealed the premeditated nature of the decision. He mentioned discussions held a week prior, highlighting the consensus to rest Messi during this particular game. This decision was independent of the outcome of the previous match against Nashville, where Luis Suarez and Sergio Busquets were also benched.
Regarding the defeat to Montreal, Martino expressed disappointment in the team’s defensive lapses, emphasizing the lack of intensity during crucial moments, whether in transition or on set pieces. Despite the setback, he believed the team had the talent to win and expressed concern over the poor start that led to the opponent scoring two early goals.
Looking ahead, Inter Miami is set to face Nashville in the second leg of their continental last-16 encounter. The team, competing on multiple fronts this season, aims to bounce back and showcase their capabilities in the upcoming fixture.
In summary, Messi’s absence was a strategic move to prioritize his fitness amid a challenging start to the season for Inter Miami. Despite the defeat, Martino remains optimistic about the team’s potential, emphasizing the need for defensive improvement in future games.
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