Inter Miami coach Tata Martino has revealed that it is highly unlikely for Lionel Messi to participate in any more MLS games this season.

Inter Miami coach Tata Martino has expressed doubts regarding Lionel Messi’s participation in MLS for the remainder of this season due to the club’s failure to secure a playoff spot.

Inter Miami’s 2023 campaign came to a premature end after suffering a 1-0 defeat to Cincinnati, rendering their post-season aspirations unattainable. Messi, who joined the club for his debut MLS season, could only contribute 35 minutes from the bench, leaving him disheartened by the outcome.

The Argentinian superstar missed the preceding four matches due to a muscle injury sustained in a 4-0 victory over Toronto, which notably included their loss in the US Open Cup final against the Houston Dynamo.

With two regular-season MLS fixtures remaining, Coach Martino has hinted at Messi’s absence to prevent any further risks to his health and fitness.

Messi won’t be available for Wednesday’s match against Charlotte at DRV PNK Stadium, as he had recently appeared for the Argentina national team, scoring twice in their 2-0 triumph over Peru on Tuesday.

The final game of Miami’s season is scheduled to be against the same opposition in North Carolina this coming Saturday.

Martino explained, “We will assess not only Leo but all players who have been with their national teams when they return on Thursday. Since we are no longer in contention for the playoffs, we don’t want to take any unnecessary risks.”