'He’s definitely out for tomorrow' - Inter Miami's Javier Mascherano confirms Lionel Messi will miss Wednesday’s Leagues Cup match vs. Pumas

Javier Mascherano confirmed on Tuesday that Lionel Messi will not be available for Inter Miami’s upcoming match against Pumas, after picking up an injury in their second Leagues Cup game against Necaxa.

Despite the setback, the Argentine coach assured it’s nothing serious and expects Messi to return soon.

“I spoke with him yesterday - it’s a minor injury. Within the bad news, it’s actually positive. Of course, we don’t like having him out, but we also avoid setting exact timelines. He’s very special and tends to recover quickly, so we’ll take it day by day,” said Mascherano in a press conference.

“He’s definitely out for tomorrow, but after that, we’ll see how he progresses based on the tests from the medical staff.”

Inter Miami currently sit third in their group with five points, and a win would secure their spot in the quarterfinals of the tournament.

Following the muscle injury he sustained over the weekend against Necaxa, Messi’s recovery is expected to progress well, opening the door for a potential return to action this Sunday when Inter Miami resume MLS play against Orlando City. Should Miami advance to the Leagues Cup knockout stage, it would resume action in the tournament on either Aug. 19 or Aug. 20. 

In league play, the Herons currently sit fifth in the Eastern Conference with 42 points.

Another topic drawing attention is the future of Sergio Busquets at Inter Miami. The 37-year-old midfielder’s contract is set to expire in December, and questions remain about whether he’ll stay beyond that.

Mascherano expressed his hope that the Spaniard will continue.

“I hope he keeps playing - and if it’s with Inter Miami, even better. He still has a lot to offer,” said the coach. “But I’m not involved in the conversations between the club and him, so I don’t have any information on that.”

Pumas will also be without their star player, former Real Madrid goalkeeper Keylor Navas, who was sent off during their 3–2 win over Atlanta United. As a result, Wednesday’s match at Chase Stadium will be missing two global football icons.