Messi, Suarez, Alba on Bench as Inter Miami Faces Atlanta United in Key MLS Clash
In a surprising move, Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez, and Jordi Alba started on the bench for Inter Miami's match against Atlanta United. This came as a strategic decision by coach Gerardo "Tata" Martino, managing player fatigue during a busy three-game week. Messi, having recently returned from a two-month injury layoff, scored two goals and provided an assist in a triumphant 3-1 victory over the Philadelphia Union last weekend. However, Martino chose to rotate the lineup for the Atlanta game to avoid overextending key players.
With Sergio Busquets suspended due to yellow card accumulation, Inter Miami was also missing key players like center-back Tomas Aviles, out with a suspension, and David Martinez, sidelined with a groin injury. Midfielder Diego Gomez was ruled out with a hamstring issue, while Noah Allen missed the trip due to concussion protocol. As a result, only three regular starters—goalkeeper Drake Callender, right-back Marcelo Weigandt, and midfielder Julian Gressel—featured in the starting lineup against Atlanta.
Also Read:Tata Martino had made it clear that he intended to manage Messi’s minutes carefully, especially considering the travel-heavy schedule. “Leo came out of the last game fine. Obviously, tired. It was his first full 90 minutes after a long time, but he finished very well,” Martino said. He emphasized that with three games in one week, including two on the road, it was crucial not to overburden players like Messi.
Inter Miami has already secured a playoff spot and sits atop the Supporters' Shield standings, with 62 points. With six regular-season games left, Miami is eyeing home-field advantage throughout the playoffs. The magic number is 10 points—if Miami can earn 10 points in the remaining matches, they will clinch the Supporters' Shield.
Despite Messi, Suarez, and Alba starting on the bench, the rest of the Miami squad featured players who had seen game time throughout the season. The lineup included notable names like Leo Campana, Robert Taylor, Benja Cremaschi, and Franco Negri. The depth of the squad, along with Martino’s tactical management, is seen as essential as Miami navigates this busy stretch.
Messi’s return to form after his injury has been a huge boost for Inter Miami, and fans are eager to see him in action. However, the strategy to rest him, especially after his impactful 105 minutes against Philadelphia, indicates that Martino has his eyes set on keeping the Argentine legend fresh for the critical postseason run. Even though Messi might not play every minute, his presence on the field is always electrifying and crucial for Miami’s aspirations as they push for MLS Cup glory.
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