On 7 August 2025, Inter Miami will play against Pumas UNAM in the third group stage match of the Leagues Cup, but their star player Lionel Messi will not be able to play in this important match. Messi suffered a minor muscle strain in his right thigh in the 2-2 draw against Necaxa on 2 August, which saw him play only 11 minutes.
Inter Miami coach Javier Mascherano confirmed that Messi will not play against Pumas due to this injury. The club did not give a timeline for his recovery, but Mascherano hoped Messi’s recovery would be quick. This article highlights Messi’s absence, the reason for the injury, and Inter Miami’s strategy.
Messi’s injury details
During the Leagues Cup match against Necaxa on August 2, 2025, Messi felt discomfort in his right thigh after a collision with two defenders, Raul Sanchez and Alexis Pena, in the eighth minute. He tried to play for a while, but had to leave the field in the 11th minute and went straight to the locker room.
The club released a statement on August 3 confirming that Messi suffered a mild strain, and his return will depend on treatment. Mascherano said in a pre-match press conference that the injury is not serious, and Messi usually recovers quickly from injuries. This news is a relief for fans, but his absence is challenging for Inter Miami.
Mascherano’s statement
Javier Mascherano gave an update on Messi’s condition in a press conference on August 5. He said that it is a minor injury, and this is good news amid bad news. Mascherano said that no specific time frame can be given given the pace of Messi’s recovery, but he will definitely not play against Pumas.
The coach stressed that Messi’s health is a priority, especially when the MLS and Leagues Cup schedules are so busy. Mascherano also said that the team is ready to make it to the quarterfinals even without Messi.
Inter Miami’s strategy
In the absence of Messi, Inter Miami will have to win against Pumas UNAM to secure a place in the Leagues Cup quarterfinals (August 19-20). Messi has led the team with 24 goals and nine assists this season, making his absence a major blow. Mascherano plans to give Luis Suarez and Tadeo Ayende key roles in attack, while Federico Redondo will bring balance to the midfield.
Goalkeeper Rocco Rios Novo, who has been performing brilliantly in recent matches, will take charge of the goalpost against Pumas. If Inter Miami wins this match, it can make it to the top four in the MLS table.
Availability of other players
Inter Miami got a relief that defender Maximiliano Falcone’s red card against Necaxa was rescinded by the Leagues Cup Disciplinary Committee. Falcone is now available to play against Pumas, which will strengthen the defense.
However, goalkeepers Oscar Ustari and Drake Callender will not be able to play in this match due to injuries. Mascherano said that Falcone’s return will also benefit the team in the Fair Play table. This change will help Inter Miami to make a strong strategy against Pumas.
Messi’s injury history
Messi has suffered muscle injuries before in 2025, most notably missing Argentina’s World Cup qualifiers in March due to a hamstring problem. This year he performed brilliantly in MLS with 18 goals and nine assists, but given his age (38 years), the club is being cautious about his fitness.
Mascherano said Messi’s recovery is usually fast, but due to the busy schedule, risks cannot be taken. The club has previously rested Messi in some matches of the MLS regular season so that he can be fit for important tournaments like the Concacaf Champions Cup and Leagues Cup. This strategy prioritizes his long-term fitness.
Importance of Leagues Cup
Inter Miami won the Leagues Cup title under Messi in 2023, the first major trophy since his arrival. This time, a win against Pumas will not only ensure entry into the quarterfinals but also strengthen their position in the joint competition of MLS and Liga MX.
In Messi’s absence, Luis Suarez will have to shoulder the responsibility in attack, who has struggled to score in recent matches. Pumas have kept only one clean sheet in the last eight games, providing opportunities for Inter Miami. Mascherano said the tournament brings back special memories for him.
Possible return
No specific date has been given for Messi’s return, but some sources estimate he could recover in two to three weeks. If Inter Miami reaches the quarterfinals, Messi would have enough time to recover by August 19-20. However, his participation in MLS matches against Orlando City on August 10 and LA Galaxy on August 16 is doubtful.
The club wants to have Messi ready for the knockout stages of the Leagues Cup or later MLS matches, such as against D.C. United on August 23. Messi’s hope for a quick recovery is a positive sign for fans.
Fans’ disappointment
Messi’s fans, who were hoping to see him play against Pumas, are disappointed with his absence. The news of his injury sparked discussions on social media, where fans wished him a speedy recovery. Messi has taken Inter Miami to new heights this season with 33 goal contributions (24 goals, nine assists) in 31 matches.
The team will have to perform in unison in his absence, especially when a win against Pumas is decisive for their tournament journey. Fans are now eagerly waiting for his return.
Team’s challenge
It will not be easy for Inter Miami to win against Pumas, as both teams are tied with five points in the group stage. Without Messi, Mascherano will have to change his strategy, with experienced players like Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba playing a key role.
The win in the penalty shootout after a draw against Necaxa has boosted the team’s morale. Mascherano said that he will do his best to win this match. This match will test Inter Miami’s depth and resilience.
