VIDEO: Lionel Messi bizarrely storms down tunnel after Inter Miami's crucial MLS win against New York Red Bulls as he bails on celebrations with Luis Suarez & Co

The Herons snapped a run of three successive defeats as they returned to winning ways on home soil. Argentine GOAT Messi was among the goals as Javier Mascherano’s side prevailed 4-1.

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Luis Suarez, Fafa Picault and Marcelo Weingandt were also on target, leading to mass celebrations at the final whistle. Messi opted not to form part of those as he made an immediate beeline for the dressing room.

No explanation has been given as to why the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner headed straight off the pitch. He had appeared to be struggling with fatigue during the second-half of another draining contest.

Messi has struggled with muscle complaints at times this season, leading to his game time being carefully managed. There is no suggestion that he is nursing another knock, with the 37-year-old merely looking to relax and recharge after getting another 90 minutes under his belt.

He has plenty left on his schedule in 2025. Inter Miami crashed out of the CONCACAF Champions Cup at the semi-final stage, but are determined to savour MLS Cup glory for the first time while also taking part in Leagues Cup and FIFA Club World Cup competition.