In a significant update, it has been confirmed that Lionel Messi will not feature for Inter Miami in their upcoming clash against the Houston Dynamo on Sunday. According to a club spokesman, Messi did not accompany his teammates to Houston.
The decision stems from the need for Messi to rest, a call made by Inter Miami's head coach, Javier Mascherano.
His absence will be felt not only by the attending fans but also by Major League Soccer and Apple, as this match is highlighted as the prime fixture in the second edition of "Sunday Night Soccer," a seasonal showcase co-produced by MLS and Apple TV. Fans can tune in to witness the match at 7 p.m. ET via MLS Season Pass on Apple TV+.
Inter Miami has clarified that Messi is not sidelined due to injury. The star player is anticipated to return on Thursday, when the team faces Jamaican league champions Cavalier FC in the round of 16 match of the Concacaf Champions Cup.
This upcoming season is particularly demanding for Inter Miami, with the team set to play its first eight matches over a tight 28-day schedule. The club's agenda includes five matches across a 15-day span, three of which will be played away from home.