Inter Miami and Lionel Messi handed positive news on Sergio Busquets after midfielder sidelined by horror tackle in Vissel Kobe friendly

The veteran midfielder was the victim of a horrific tackle from Yuya Okaka during his team's friendly clash against Vissel Kobe, forcing him out of the game. According to Franco Panizo, the 35-year-old will miss this week's friendly clash against Newell's Old Boys, but he could be fit for the opening game of the new MLS campaign.

Busquets joined the Florida club in July last year and went on to make 20 appearances alongside fellow ex-Barcelona stars Lionel Messi and Jordi Alba. The Herons missed out on the MLS playoffs despite the arrivals of such big names, but will hope to have Busquets fit and ready to help fire them to a successful 2024.

Busquets helped Inter Miami to their first-ever trophy last season, having featured in seven Leagues Cup matches as they went on to beat Nashville on penalties in the final. Messi was pivotal in that success, scoring 10 goals in his seven appearances.

After the friendly against Messi's boyhood club Newell's Old Boys, Inter Miami will hope to get the new MLS season off to a strong start when they host Real Salt Lake in their first game on February 22, followed by a visit to LA Galaxy four days later.