Lionel Messi fans were left surprised when the Argentine legend was benched during Inter Miami's 2-2 draw against Atlanta United.
Messi, who had recently returned from an ankle injury, was introduced in the second half but didn't start the match. Assistant coach Javier Morales shed light on this decision.
Messi had been out of action for three months due to injury and international commitments, including his involvement in the Copa America final.
Though he made a triumphant return in Miami’s 3-1 victory over Philadelphia Union, scoring twice and assisting once, the coaching staff decided to be cautious with the superstar’s fitness.
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Atlanta United 2-2 Inter Miami: Why Lionel Messi was on bench?
Javier Morales explained the reasoning behind Messi’s absence from the starting lineup:
“We have three games this week, and with players suspended, we had to balance the team. Tata Martino and the coaching staff thought it was the right decision, and I believe it worked out well.”
Despite being on the bench, Messi’s presence was still felt when he entered the game in the 61st minute.
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The crowd erupted, thrilled to see the football icon on the pitch. Morales added, “Messi always looks good, and tonight was no different. His performance was positive, and he had chances to score.”
While Miami led twice in the match through goals from David Ruiz and Leonardo Campana, they couldn’t secure all three points, eventually settling for a draw. However, Messi’s cameo, full of his usual flair, kept Miami’s hopes alive in their chase for MLS Cup glory.
