Andrew Wiebe, an expert in Major League Soccer (MLS), has advised Inter Miami against risking their talisman and captain Lionel Messi in the upcoming Leagues Cup. Wiebe is concerned that rushing Messi back could potentially worsen his ankle injury and lead to a longer period of absence, possibly impacting the team during the crucial stage of the season.
Lionel Messi Suffers Ankle Injury, Out Indefinitely
Lionel Messi, regarded as the most decorated player of all time, sustained a severe ankle injury during the first half of the 2024 Copa America final against Colombia on Sunday, July 14. Despite attempting to play through the pain, Messi was forced to leave the pitch just past the hour mark. The Barcelona star was visibly upset and emotional on the bench after being substituted.
Fortunately, Messi’s absence did not hinder Argentina from successfully defending their Copa America title. Substitute Lautaro Martinez scored the decisive goal in extra time, securing a 1-0 victory.
Inter Miami officially announced Messi’s ankle injury on Tuesday, indicating that his return timeline is currently uncertain. The club’s statement noted:
“Following a medical evaluation, it has been confirmed that Leo Messi has sustained a ligament injury in his right ankle. The captain’s availability will be determined based on ongoing assessments and the progress of his recovery.”
Andrew Wiebe Advises Caution in Messi’s Recovery
With Messi sidelined due to the ankle injury, Inter Miami is set to kick off their Leagues Cup campaign against Puebla FC on Saturday, July 27. Additionally, there is an upcoming All-Stars match where Messi was likely to feature prominently.
In a discussion on MLS Extratime, Wiebe recommended that Inter Miami allow Messi to rest for the upcoming matches, warning that a premature return could lead to further complications. Wiebe expressed:
“Having experience with grade three ankle sprains, it seems unlikely that Messi will return in the next few weeks given the extent of swelling. It appears that Inter Miami may have to continue without Messi in the Leagues Cup title defense. It’s crucial for Miami not to take unnecessary risks with him.”
Unlike the previous season, Inter Miami has been performing well even in Messi’s absence. Following a 3-1 victory over Toronto on Wednesday, they currently lead the Eastern Conference standings. Cincinnati trails behind in second place, just two points behind the Herons.
