Inter Miami coach Mascherano makes key call on Lionel Messi’s availability vs. Atlanta United

Lionel Messi’s fitness has been a major talking point for Inter Miami fans after he missed three consecutive games before making his return midweek. With a crucial match against Atlanta United on Sunday, head coach Javier Mascherano has now made a key decision regarding Messi’s playing time.

After a demanding start to the 2025 season, Messi was sidelined for three straight matches due to muscle fatigue. The Argentine star returned to action on Thursday in the CONCACAF Champions Cup clash against Cavalier, where he marked his comeback with a goal in Inter Miami’s 2-0 victory.

Messi’s presence in Jamaica was met with enthusiasm, as rival fans celebrated his return to the pitch. Now, with Atlanta United up next before the international break, speculation has once again surfaced over whether the World Cup winner will feature in the lineup.

Mascherano’s decision on Messi

Speaking at Saturday’s press conference, Javier Mascherano confirmed that Messi will travel to Atlanta for the upcoming MLS match, signaling his availability. However, it remains undecided whether he will start or come off the bench. Mascherano also provided an update on Messi’s fitness and the club’s cautious approach:

“Leo felt very good. Beyond how the game was going, the pitch… There were some voices questioning whether we were taking a risk or not, but we had planned for him to play about 30 to 35 minutes in Jamaica to regain good sensations. In the end, we found the right moment for him to play, and he was able to do so,” the manager said.

With the Argentina national team set to play in the CONMEBOL World Cup Qualifiers, questions arose over whether Messi’s recent rest was influenced by his international commitments. Mascherano, however, dismissed those claims, emphasizing Messi’s dedication to Inter Miami.

Inter Miami currently sit 2nd in the Eastern Conference with 7 points from 3 games, while Atlanta United are struggling in 12th place with 4 points. With Messi back in the squad, the Florida-based club will look to take the top spot, as the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner has already contributed 3 goals and 2 assists in 4 appearances across all competitions.