Inter Miami coach Gerardo ‘Tata’ Martino recently came under scrutiny for his decision to rest Lionel Messi in their recent 3-2 defeat against Montreal. Despite Messi’s absence, Martino defended his choice, citing the need to prioritize the player’s rest and overall team health.
Martino emphasized the importance of ensuring that the team remains healthy and capable of lasting throughout the entire season. With veteran players like Jordi Alba, Sergio Busquets, and Luis Suárez in the squad, Martino has maintained his stance on strategically resting key players to maintain their fitness and performance levels.
Following Sunday’s loss, Martino expressed his disappointment over the result, stating that Inter Miami deserved to win the game. Despite the defeat, Martino stood by his decision to rest Messi, indicating that it was a calculated move to benefit the team in the long run.
Martino acknowledged the team’s defensive shortcomings, particularly after conceding five goals in their last two matches. He highlighted the need for improved defensive effort during critical moments in the game, whether it be during open play or set-pieces.
In addition to addressing his team’s performance, Martino criticized Montreal players for their alleged time-wasting tactics during the game. He expressed frustration over what he perceived as a lack of commitment to playing fair and in line with the spirit of the league, calling out instances where the opposition deliberately slowed down the pace of the game.
Despite the setback, Inter Miami is gearing up for their upcoming match against Nashville SC in the Concacaf Champions Cup. With the tie currently leveled at 2-2 after the first leg, Martino and his team are focused on securing a positive result and advancing to the next stage of the competition.
While Martino’s decision to rest Messi may have raised eyebrows, it underscores his commitment to managing the team effectively and prioritizing their long-term success. With key challenges to address in defense and a competitive schedule ahead, Inter Miami will need to regroup and refocus to achieve their goals for the season.