Inter Miami captain Lionel Messi did not travel to the team’s game against the Houston Dynamo on Sunday due to a coach’s decision to rest him before the upcoming Concacaf Champions Cup match. The Argentine star is expected to play in Inter Miami’s Round of 16 match against Jamaican team Cavalier SC at Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale on Thursday.
Coach Javier Mascherano stated that Messi is not injured, but was given some rest due to the congested team schedule. Mascherano also reassured fans that Messi is fine and will train normally with his teammates. However, the status of midfielder Drake Callender, who injured his adductor muscle during the preseason, remains unknown.
The Inter Miami coach acknowledged that the season ahead will be extremely long and challenging, with multiple competitions including the MLS season, Champions Cup, Club World Cup, and Leagues Cup. Mascherano emphasized the importance of rotating the roster to avoid player fatigue, but also understands the need to take care of his players.
This weekend’s match against Houston presents an opportunity for Inter Miami to secure their first victory in the MLS season, which has already ended in a 2-2 tie against NYCFC. The Houston Dynamo is looking for its first win following a 2-1 loss to Dallas FC in their opener. Key players to watch include French Moroccan forward Amine Bassi and Argentine forward Ezequiel Ponce.
The game will be streamed on Apple TV MLS Season Pass at Shell Energy Stadium in Houston, with kickoff scheduled for 7 p.m. Sunday.
Source: https://www.miamiherald.com/sports/mls/inter-miami/article301182239.html