Messi's Absence From Games Sparks Discussions

By Jephthah Nana Adjei Osei - Mensah
Music Journalist

March 20th, 2024

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Messi

Written By : Leah De-Graft Takyi

Lionel Messi’s absence from recent games with Inter Miami and Argentina due to a hamstring injury sparks discussions about the World Cup champion’s need for adequate rest. The Argentine football icon, who is set to sit out Argentina’s upcoming matches against El Salvador and Costa Rica, has been grappling with various injuries and fatigue concerns in recent seasons. These issues raise alarms about his overall well-being and his availability for both club and country.

Messi endured setbacks last season, sidelined by leg bruising and fatigue, with a recurring injury aggravated during international duty. With Inter Miami navigating a demanding schedule, including Concacaf Champions Cup fixtures and extensive MLS travel commitments, managing Messi’s workload and ensuring his recovery are paramount for the 36-year-old forward.

The packed match calendar, compounded by teams juggling multiple competitions like the Concacaf Champions Cup and Leagues Cup, necessitates a focus on rest and player rotation. Messi's recent injury setback, which saw him playing only half an hour in the Champions Cup before missing international duty, underscores the importance of careful management of his playing time.

However, the silver lining of Messi's injury is the opportunity for approximately 17 days of rest, providing him with a much-needed break for recovery. Inter Miami must strike a delicate balance between pushing Messi to his limits and granting him ample rest, particularly given the team's depth and the significance of preserving their star player's fitness for crucial matches.

As the Eastern Conference playoffs loom and the Club World Cup awaits, Inter Miami must prioritize Messi's long-term well-being over short-term victories. Success in knockout competitions, like last season's Leagues Cup, hinges on having a fully fit and refreshed Messi leading the charge.

With an eye on bolstering their squad and vying for the MLS Cup, Inter Miami's focus remains on effectively managing Messi's workload and ensuring he is in peak form for pivotal encounters. With the Copa America looming and uncertainties surrounding Messi's autumn playing time, the team must emphasize rest and recovery to optimize their chances of on-field triumph.