'They didn't let me compete' - Lionel Messi takes aim at MLS after marking 'difficult' return from suspension with two assists in Inter Miami's Leagues Cup opener vs Atlas

Argentine GOAT Messi was forced to sit out the Herons’ goalless draw with FC Cincinnati. He found himself restricted to a spectator role in that contest after skipping the 2025 MLS All-Star Game alongside club colleague Jordi Alba.

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With a hectic schedule being worked through of late, which included the FIFA Club World Cup, many suggested that a rest was no bad thing for Messi. The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner is, however, adamant that he needs regular outings in order to maintain momentum.

He did not appear to have too many problems shaking any rust in a Leagues Cup opener against Mexican side Atlas, with two assists recorded in a 2-1 win. Messi is still disappointed, though, that MLS felt the need to take disciplinary action against him.

Messi said after returning to action against Atlas: “The truth is that it was difficult with the heat, and not having played the other day. Even if [the rest] seems better, for me it's worse because I need to compete.

“I feel good physically the more matches I play and get into rhythm. The other day they didn't let me compete, and I felt it in the first half, but the important thing is that we won.”

Messi, who has scored or assisted 21 of Inter Miami’s last 27 goals, added on making a positive start to another quest for major silverware: “It's a great competition for us; one we always compete in. It's a great test for us to face Mexican teams, and the format has changed, so we can enjoy it and play it. It's a great competition. [The victory] is super important.

“The American teams hadn't won, and it's important for us to take advantage because we compete against each other. While we're playing against Mexican teams, the table is on our side, and we have to score more than the others.”

Messi inspired Inter Miami to a historic Leagues Cup triumph within weeks of his arrival in the United States during the summer of 2023. While back in the hunt for honours, questions are being asked of his long-term future as a contract extension option in South Florida remains untriggered.