Inter Miami react to Lionel Messi injury by signing FOUR new players - including MLS SuperDraft pick Yannick Bright - as Tata Martino throws them straight into matchday squad

After confirming the signing of 2024 MLS SuperDraft pick Yannick Bright on Friday, Inter Miami have now announced the arrival of three players from the reserves side Inter Miami CF II on short-term deals. All four players have been included in the club's matchday squad for their upcoming MLS clash against New York Red Bulls on Saturday, which won't feature Messi due to injury.

The Herons decided to add four new players to their senior team after Messi picked up an injury. The veteran footballer was forced to leave the pitch in the second half of their CONCACAF Champions Cup against Nashville on March 13. The Argentina skipper missed the club's clash against DC United and was even removed from the national team for their upcoming international friendlies as a result.

As per MLS rules, short-term agreements allow clubs to rope in players on loan from their respective MLS NEXT Pro affiliate. The players are eligible to play in the MLS, the U.S. Open Cup, the CONCACAF Champions League, Canadian Championship and exhibition matches.

With no risks being taken with the 36-year-old's fitness, Messi is expected to be back in action by April 3. He is therefore likely to be available for selection for the club's CONCACAF Champion Cup quarter-final first leg clash against Mexican side Monterrey.