Explained: Why Inter Miami's MLS clash with New York Red Bulls wasn't postponed despite both teams wanting game pushed back - with Lionel Messi set to miss fixture

Star player Lionel Messi remains sidelined due to a muscle injury sustained during a CONCACAF Champions Cup quarterfinal against Nashville. Additionally, Miami will be without up to eight other potential starters due to various fitness issues and the ongoing FIFA international break.

The situation isn't any better for the Red Bulls, as captain Emil Forsberg and four other key players are away on international duty. And despite the mutual agreement between the two clubs to postpone the fixture, the federation's decision to proceed with the match poses challenges for both sides.

Martino expressed his disappointment, highlighting the need for the league to reevaluate its stance on playing fixtures during FIFA breaks.

"We received a request from Red Bulls to postpone this match and we agreed, but the federation didn't approve," the Inter manager said.

"It’s something that will have to be considered, the league will have to continue assessing [playing though FIFA breaks]."

The reintroduction of the Leagues Cup last year further complicates matters for the US Soccer Federation. It is a four-week-long tournament in the middle of the season which makes fixture postponements challenging.

Martino will find solace in the availability of veteran players such as Luis Suarez, Sergio Busquets, and Jordi Alba, who bring valuable experience and depth to the squad. However, as MLS continues to grapple with scheduling conflicts and player absences, calls for a more flexible approach during international breaks are likely to intensify.