Lionel Messi at Inter Miami: Why Messi not playing today against Atlanta United?

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Lionel Messi is reportedly out of action for Inter Miami in Saturday's (September 16) match against Atlanta United.

The Argentine was supposed to play for his club in the latest MLS match, but it is certain that the player will not be available for Inter's next match. Messi hasn't been part of Miami's travelling squad as they take on Atlanta United and is expected to be rested.

Messi recently played in Argentina's World Cup Qualifiers match against Ecuador and scored the winning goal. The former Barcelona man took part in his country's trip to Bolivia, but was not named in the squad.

Why Lionel Messi is not playing?

Inter Miami coach Gerardo Martino said that Messi is with the team and is 'fine', but he also asserted they don't want to burden pressure on the Argentine. The 35-year-old may have games coming thick and fast at the latter stages of the MLS season, and Martino wants him fit for the business end of that.

With Inter Miami just six points from the Eastern Conference Playoff spots, it is to be seen how they shape up against Atlanta United without Messi.

"We'll be careful with Messi because we have a lot of important games in a short span," Martino said recently.

And Messi is being rested as Inter Miami want him fresh whenever he plays and don't want the legendary player to be overworked.

Messi at Inter Miami

Messi has been an influential figure at Inter Miami since joining the MLS outfit in the summer. He has so far netted 11 goals out of 11 matches across all competitions and also helped Inter Miami to win the Leagues Cup.