A Lionel Messi ban! Why Inter Miami’s No.10 shirt will not figure as prominently in CONCACAF Champions Cup clash with Nashville

The Herons are due in Tennessee on Thursday for the first leg of a CONCACAF Champions Cup last-16 encounter. That journey from Florida will be made with a star-studded cast brought along for the ride, with eight-time Ballon d’Or winner Messj very much part of Tata Martino’s plans.

Luis Suarez and Sergio Busquets may also figure, along with Jordi Alba, and there are always plenty of Inter Miami jerseys to be seen whenever Messi and Co head out on the road – particularly those with No.10 on the back. That will not be the case, however, at GEODIS Park.

Nashville have said in an official club statement: “No opposing team colors will be allowed in the Supporters Section (Sections 106-110) of GEODIS Park for Thursday’s Concacaf Champions Cup match. Anyone entering this area in opposing jerseys or colors risks being removed from GEODIS Park.

“Opposing jerseys and colors will be allowed in the seated sections (Sections 105-111) as well as other seated areas of the stadium. Additional stadium staff will be in place at the entrances of lower bowl sections to ensure the safety of all guests and the integrity of fans’ seats.”

This is not the first time that Nashville has played host to Messi and Inter Miami, with the two sides locking horns in the final of the inaugural Leagues Cup in 2023 – when the Herons prevailed in a thrilling penalty shootout. Both teams are unbeaten in 2024, with Miami picking up seven points from three MLS fixtures, while Nashville have been held to back-to-back draws.