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Is Lionel Messi Playing Tonight for Inter Miami vs New York City FC?

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Farah Ben Gamra | Last updated Sep 24, 2025 1:30 PM ET

With 22 goals to his name, Lionel Messi is the top goal scorer in Major League Soccer. And once again, all the attention will be on him when Inter Miami travels to New York City FC’s Citi Field this evening.

Game time is set for 7:30 p.m. ET and the question everyone is eager to know if Messi will start or not.

At 38 and still consistently playing for Inter Miami, he has been the difference all season long. He scored two goals in a win against D.C. United last weekend, helping the club get closer to playoff contention.

There is always a bit of suspense surrounding whether he will play based on how long the season has been and his age. However, this is a game that counts, Miami will want their best player on the pitch.

Lionel Messi set to play against New York City FC

The expectation is that Messi plays and starts. Multiple outlets list him in their predicted XI on the right side of Miami’s attack along with a returning Luis Suárez, after his three-game suspension.

Inter Miami’s official preview points to his recent night and said that a draw or a win would be enough to secure a postseason spot for Miami.

There have not been any new injury reports. Messi has dealt with slight knocks earlier this year, but he is fine and has been central to anything Miami does in attack.

Unless something changes in the final hour, he should be on the field by the time the match begins. You will get official confirmation when the team sheets are released about one hour before the start of the match.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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