Explained: Why Inter Miami subbed on Lionel Messi for final seven minutes – despite being 6-0 down against Cristiano Ronaldo-less Al-Nassr

The Portuguese superstar was officially ruled out on Wednesday through injury, depriving fans of what was billed the 'Last Dance' between football's two eternal rivals. Messi also did not feature from the start due to a minor injury problem. ESPN's Leo Paradizo reported that Messi was injured but could still play due to contractual commitments with organisers. The World Cup winner was not named in the squad initially but a revised teamsheet was then issued which showed Messi was on the bench. Tata Martino subsequently went on to call for his superstar late on with his team already 6-0 down and just seven minutes remaining.

Messi had featured in Miami's last three friendly matches but was withdrawn before full time in all of them. The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner missed a total of six matches for the Herons since joining last summer due to a persistent muscle injury, which appears to have been aggravated again.

Even with Messi on the field, the MLS outfit lost their January pre-season friendlies against FC Dallas and Al-Hilal, while they drew against the El Salvador national team.

Inter Miami supporters will be hoping Messi's latest knock is not serious and he can return to the starting XI soon. The club are due to play a Hong Kong XI, Vissel Kobe and Newell's Old Boys before opening up their MLS campaign against Real Salt Lake.