Lionel Messi will not take part in Inter Miami’s quarterfinal matchup against Tigres UANL in the Leagues Cup. Messi was not even on the bench primarily due to worries over a recurring muscle complaint. Messi returned last weekend from a minor muscle complaint and at least felt good enough to play for 45 minutes, scoring an extra goal and an assist against LA Galaxy. However, he had a flare up on the last match and on a subsequent check of his hamstring felt a twinge which signalled somewhat concerning signs he was not ready go.
The breaking point happened Tuesday because Messi didn’t train the day before the match, which certainly indicated there was some discomfort. Mascherano said though he could not totally rule Messi out, the decision would ultimately come down to Messi’s physical condition, and how he felt about it. They ended up going with caution and chose to list him as out for the match.
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