Columbus Crew vs Inter Miami: Will Lionel Messi Play in Today’s MLS Clash?

Add as a preferred source on Google

Inter Miami are set to face Columbus Crew at Huntington Bank Field Stadium on Saturday (April 19) in an MLS fixture. The match carries considerable importance as both teams remain undefeated in the 2025 campaign, with Columbus topping the Eastern Conference and Inter Miami following closely behind.

After a goalless draw last week against the Chicago Fire, Inter Miami slipped to fourth in the rankings, failing to score despite Messi, Luis Suarez, and Sergio Busquets all completing the full match.

Columbus Crew vs Inter Miami: Is Lionel Messi Expected to Play Today?

Messi, who has been pivotal in Miami’s offence throughout the competition, has had his fitness under scrutiny over the past two months, especially after a minor adductor strain that prevented him from playing for Argentina in March. Although the March adductor injury briefly kept him out, he made a strong comeback, netting a goal shortly after being subbed on versus Philadelphia Union. At present, he has registered three goals and two assists in five MLS outings this year, adding to his remarkable record of 42 goals and 20 assists in 49 games for Inter Miami.

The 37-year-old has participated in Miami’s previous four games and is anticipated to feature in Saturday’s encounter. Four appearances within a week mark a demanding schedule for the Argentine, particularly as he continues to recover from a recent injury. However, the Herons are bracing for another demanding stretch, with a Champions Cup semi-final against the Vancouver Whitecaps set for Thursday. Given the congested calendar, careful squad management will be essential to avoid issues against Columbus Crew

Inter Miami manager Javier Mascherano has also voiced optimism about Messi’s condition and involvement in the match. Mascherano underlined the significance of facing elite teams like Columbus as a means of evaluating the team’s development. On Friday, Mascherano stated, “The idea is to go with the best possible team, and if everyone is available, we’ll go all in. Then we’ll see if we rotate in any position or not, but it’s a very important game for us, and we’re looking to play it seriously.” Hence, fans at Cleveland can expect Messi play in this important MLS clash.

Nevertheless, Inter Miami is contending with injuries to several crucial players. Defender Ian Fray remains sidelined due to a cruciate ligament issue and is expected back by July 2025. Midfielders David Ruiz and Federico Redondo are also out, each nursing hamstring problems. Despite these difficulties, the squad is committed to preserving their undefeated streak.