Injured In Last Game, Is Lionel Messi Playing Tonight For Inter Miami Vs Pumas UNAM In Leagues Cup?

With the club's statement not informing whether how long Messi will be out for, many assume the star will be back very soon, but that is not the case.

Lionel Messi Won't Play Against Pumas UNAM

Despite Inter Miami giving hope to fans by detailing Messi's injury as minor, the head coach, Javier Mascherano, confirmed that the star will not play against Pumas UNAM.

The coach of Inter Miami assures that Messi does well in recovering from injuries and expects the star to be back soon.

Javier Mascherano: "Messi is quite a special player who usually recovers very well from injuries, and quickly. He won’t play tomorrow [vs Pumas]. His return will depend on how he progresses and the results of the tests from his medical staff. Once he’s ready, he’ll be back with us.”

Mascherano insists that the club's statement is accurate and good news, as the injury is minor. Messi is expected to be three weeks out as the recovery stage may need more time than expected.

Javier Mascherano: "I spoke with Messi yesterday, the club issued a statement that was clear, it’s a minor injury. Amid the bad news, this is good news. We know the magnitude of the buzz that accompanies Leo’s absence from any match."

Inter Miami's 2025 Leagues Cup

Inter Miami is currently fifth in the MLS Leagues Cup table with five points. The top four qualify for the quarterfinals, and a win for the Herons mathematically puts them into the next round.

Columbus Crew are first with seven points, and LAFC are second with six points. Both teams played their three matches, which means a win for Inter Miami could place them first.

Only two teams could finish first ahead of Inter Miami if they beat Pumas. The Seattle Sounders and Portland Timbers have six points after two wins in their first two games.