Inter Miami’s clash with Columbus Crew on Saturday isn’t just a battle of Eastern Conference titans—it’s a litmus test for Lionel Messi’s endurance. The Argentine maestro, pivotal to Miami’s unbeaten 2025 MLS run, faces lingering questions about his fitness after a recent adductor strain and a grueling four-game stretch.
With Columbus leading the conference and Miami chasing closely, all eyes are on whether Messi can defy wear-and-tear concerns to ignite his side’s attack.
Lionel Messi’s Status: Injury concerns vs. managerial optimism
Messi is expected to feature against Columbus Crew despite a minor adductor issue that sidelined him briefly in March. Inter Miami manager Javier Mascherano has doubled down on confidence, emphasizing the need for his star’s presence in high-stakes matches.
“The idea is to go with the best possible team,” Mascherano stated, hinting at minimal rotation despite a congested schedule that includes a Champions Cup semi-final next week.
Lionel Messi’s recent form silences some doubts. Since returning from injury, he’s netted three goals and two assists in five league appearances, including a clutch strike off the bench against Philadelphia Union. However, the 37-year-old’s workload—four games in two weeks—raises red flags. Fatigue management is critical, especially with Inter Miami’s trophy ambitions spanning multiple competitions.
Why Messi is important
Messi isn’t just Miami’s top scorer; he’s their tactical nucleus. His 42 goals and 20 assists in 49 games underscore a transformative impact, blending playmaking genius with clinical finishing. Against Columbus’s league-best defense, his ability to unlock tight spaces could prove decisive.
Yet, reliance on Messi carries risks. Miami’s attack sputtered in a 0-0 draw with Chicago Fire last week, despite Messi, Luis Suárez, and Sergio Busquets playing full minutes. The Crew, meanwhile, boast a balanced squad with minimal injury woes, intensifying the pressure on Miami’s marquee names.
Injury toll beyond Messi: Inter Miami’s depth tested
While Lionel Messi’s status dominates headlines, Inter Inter Miami’s roster faces broader challenges. Defender Ian Fray (cruciate ligament) remains sidelined until July, while midfielders David Ruiz and Federico Redondo nurse hamstring injuries. These absences strain depth, forcing Mascherano to juggle lineups without compromising defensive solidity or creative flow.
Messi to play—but for how long?
Barring a last-minute setback, Messi will start against Columbus. However, expect Mascherano to manage his minutes carefully, possibly substituting him early if Miami secures a lead. With the Champions Cup semi-final looming, balancing immediate results and long-term fitness is paramount.
For Lionel Messi, the mission is clear: deliver a statement performance to silence doubters and keep Inter Miami’s unbeaten streak alive. For fans, it’s a chance to witness greatness—one cautious sprint at a time.