Lionel Messi’s highly anticipated comeback with Inter Miami took an unexpected twist in their recent clash against Toronto on September 29, leaving both fans and experts in suspense.
The Argentine superstar, substituted off in the 37th minute due to a persistent leg concern, now finds himself sidelined once again, raising questions about his immediate future with the team.
In Messi’s absence, Inter Miami delivered an impressive performance, clinching a commanding 4-0 victory that brought them within five points of the coveted playoff spot in Major League Soccer’s Eastern Conference. Stepping into Messi’s shoes, Robert Taylor stole the spotlight with two goals and an assist.
Messi’s early departure from the game sparked concerns, leading Inter Miami’s coach, Gerardo “Tata” Martino, to confirm that the football legend would be absent for the upcoming match against Orlando. Martino revealed that Messi had been grappling with a recurring injury that resurfaced during the Toronto encounter.
This setback represents the second injury blow for Inter Miami, as Jordi Alba, another midseason addition, was forced to exit the game in the 34th minute, further complicating the team’s situation.
The match against Toronto began with promise, with Messi showcasing his skills and creating opportunities. However, his sudden decline in performance after the 33rd minute set off alarm bells.
Messi’s decision to relinquish his captain’s armband before leaving the field left fans speculating about the seriousness of his condition and the timeline for his return to action.
Although fatigue has been suggested as a contributing factor to Messi’s recent absences, the team has yet to provide a specific diagnosis for his current ailment.
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