The air in Fort Lauderdale is thick with anticipation, not just for a crucial Leagues Cup semifinal, but for the answer to a question that has dominated soccer conversations across the globe: will Lionel Messi play? Inter Miami is set to host fierce in-state rivals Orlando City SC, a fixture that always ignites passions, but this time, the stakes are elevated by the looming presence – or potential absence – of arguably the greatest player of all time.
The Enigma of Messi`s Return: A Team`s Hopes on a Hamstring?
Messi`s impact on Inter Miami since his arrival has been nothing short of transformative. From languishing at the bottom of the league, the Herons soared to their first-ever trophy, propelled by his dazzling goals and assists. With 20 goals and 10 assists across all competitions, he’s been the undeniable engine of their resurgence. Yet, even a maestro like Messi is not immune to the physical demands of the game.
His recent muscular injury, aggravated during a brief appearance against the Los Angeles Galaxy in mid-August, has cast a shadow of doubt. He subsequently missed their thrilling quarterfinal victory over Tigres, and notably, a humbling 4-1 loss to this very Orlando City squad earlier in the season. The pattern is clear: Inter Miami has struggled significantly in MLS games without him, winning only one of five. The team, it seems, has developed a certain `Messi-dependency`.
“The question isn`t just *if* Messi plays, but *how* his presence, even from the bench, fundamentally alters the tactical landscape and psychological resolve
