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Early Exit by Messi: What Really Happened Against Toronto FC?

By Arthur Fernandes

FORT LAUDERDALE, FLORIDA - SEPTEMBER 20: Lionel Messi #10 of Inter Miami leaves the game during the first half during a match between Toronto FC at DRV PNK Stadium on September 20, 2023 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. (Photo by Carmen Mandato/Getty Images)
FORT LAUDERDALE, FLORIDA - SEPTEMBER 20: Lionel Messi #10 of Inter Miami leaves the game during the first half during a match between Toronto FC at DRV PNK Stadium on September 20, 2023 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. (Photo by Carmen Mandato/Getty Images) /
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Lionel Messi, the Argentine superstar who shook the soccer world by transferring to Inter Miami CF, continues to be the subject of intense scrutiny and speculation as his journey in Major League Soccer (MLS) unfolds. The latest chapter in this story unfolded after Messi left the field earlier than expected in tonight’s match against Toronto FC, due to muscle fatigue, alongside his teammate Jordi Alba.

Since his arrival at Inter Miami in July, Messi has brought a touch of magic to American soccer. His name alone has elevated the profile of the MLS, drawing more attention to the competition and turning Inter Miami into an internationally recognized team. However, Messi’s interruption due to muscle fatigue raises questions about how this high-profile transfer is being managed.

Soccer is an extremely physically demanding sport, and fatigue is an inevitable part of an elite athlete’s life. The fact that Messi was sidelined due to muscle fatigue is not, in itself, a surprise. The crucial question is how the club is managing the workload and recovery of their most valuable player.

Inter Miami’s Argentine forward #10 Lionel Messi runs with the ball during the Major League Soccer (MLS) football match between Inter Miami CF and Toronto FC at DRV PNK Stadium in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, on September 20, 2023. (Photo by Chris Arjoon / AFP) (Photo by CHRIS ARJOON/AFP via Getty Images)
Inter Miami’s Argentine forward #10 Lionel Messi runs with the ball during the Major League Soccer (MLS) football match between Inter Miami CF and Toronto FC at DRV PNK Stadium in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, on September 20, 2023. (Photo by Chris Arjoon / AFP) (Photo by CHRIS ARJOON/AFP via Getty Images) /

Coach Gerardo Martino, who knows Messi very well, revealed that both players were rested due to fatigue after a 12-game unbeaten streak in all competitions was broken. This raises the question of whether the team needs to rely so heavily on Messi and whether they are exploring all options for rotation and squad management to keep their players fit throughout the season.

Furthermore, the US Open Cup final is approaching, and Inter Miami also aims to secure a spot in the playoffs for the 2023 Audi MLS Cup. These competitions will demand more effort and energy from the team, and it is crucial that Messi and other key players are in their best form when the decisive phase arrives.

Messi’s experience in the MLS is far from a disappointment, but it serves as a reminder that even the greatest soccer talents are not immune to fatigue and injuries. Inter Miami CF must learn to balance the excitement of having a legend like Messi on their team with the need to protect his health and ensure consistent performance.

The soccer world is closely watching, eager to see how Messi adapts to this new chapter in his career. With proper management and the determination of all involved, Messi’s presence in the MLS can continue to shine, providing fans with memorable moments and giving Inter Miami CF a real chance at success in future competitions.

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