Inter Miami head coach Gerardo “Tata” Martino confirmed that Lionel Messi will not be playing in the team’s Leagues Cup round-of-32 match against Toronto FC. The Argentine superstar has not yet trained with the team since returning from Copa América due to an ankle injury. Martino mentioned in a news conference that Messi is improving every day but is still limited to training in the gym rather than on the field. Despite his progress, Messi will not be ready to compete on Thursday night.
On a positive note, Luis Suárez is set to make his comeback for Inter Miami in the clash against Toronto FC. The striker had been sidelined with a recurrent knee injury, which forced him to miss the 2024 MLS All-Star game and the team’s final group stage match against Tigres. Martino stated that Suárez has been training well and will be available for selection for the upcoming game, providing a significant boost to the team.
Defensive duo Benjamin Cremaschi and Diego Gómez are also set to rejoin the Inter Miami squad after returning from international duty. Cremaschi represented the U.S. at the Paris Olympics, while Gómez played for Paraguay, both reaching the quarterfinals of the tournament. Despite their differing levels of activity during their time away, Martino confirmed that both players are fit and available for selection in the upcoming match against Toronto FC.
With the majority of the squad available for selection, Inter Miami will be aiming to secure victory against Toronto FC to progress to the next round of the Leagues Cup. Martino emphasized the importance of the upcoming match, highlighting the need for a strong performance from his team. Despite acknowledging the quality of the opposition, Martino expressed his confidence in his players’ abilities and their capacity to overcome the challenge presented by Toronto FC.
Inter Miami will be without the services of Lionel Messi for the Leagues Cup clash against Toronto FC, but they will welcome back Luis Suárez from injury. With Cremaschi and Gómez also returning to the squad, Martino will have a near-full strength team at his disposal as they look to secure a place in the next round of the tournament. The Miami boss will be hoping for a strong performance from his players as they aim to overcome the challenge posed by Toronto FC and continue their pursuit of success in the competition.