Is Lionel Messi playing today? Predicted lineups for Colorado Rapids vs Inter Miami in MLS clash

Even though they are coming off a MLS title, Inter Miami CF are enduring a difficult season, as the retirements of Jordi Alba and Sergio Busquets have proven challenging, ultimately leading to the departure of Javier Mascherano. Following this, they turned to Guillermo Hoyos as head coach, with his debut coming against Colorado Rapids. As a result, fans are closely monitoring the status of Lionel Messi.

According to José Armando Rodríguez, via X, Lionel Messi has traveled and trained normally with Inter Miami CF. As a result, head coach Guillermo Hoyos could opt to start the Argentine, as the team is in need of a win following their last two draws in MLS. The Herons are not in their best form, so the veteran’s presence could serve as a turning point in their season to clinch a winning streak.

Alongside the Argentinean, Luis Suárez could also return to the starting lineup, having played just 11 minutes in the previous match. The Uruguayan is well-rested and could provide a significant boost in front of goal, especially with Germán Berterame yet to make a strong impact. Meanwhile, coach Hoyos may continue to rely on Rodrigo De Paul as a key figure in midfield amid the team’s inconsistent performances.

Colorado Rapids are coming off an emphatic 6–2 victory over Houston Dynamo, providing a major boost as they look to build a winning streak in MLS. However, head coach Matt Wells faces a tough challenge, with Miguel Navarro, Theodore Ku-Dipietro, Reggie Cannon, and Connor Ronan all sidelined through injury. Despite these absences, they will look to Rafael Navarro to remain a difference-maker, as he comes in off an impressive brace.

Colorado Rapids predicted lineups vs Inter Miami

Despite their strong form, Colorado Rapids will not have an easy matchup against Inter Miami CF, as Lionel Messi and Luis Suárez are capable of breaking down their defensive line. Nevertheless, the Rapids have shown they are one of the most dangerous attacking teams, with Paxten Aaronson and Rafael Navarro playing key roles. As a result, they will look to control the game and set the offensive tempo against the Herons’ vulnerable defense.

Considering this, Colorado Rapids could lineup as follows: Zack Steffen; Kosi Thompson, Rob Holding, Lucas Herrington, Wayne Frederick; Hamzat Ojediran, Joshua Atencio; Darren Yapi, Paxten Aaronson, Dante Sealy; Rafael Navarro.

Inter Miami predicted lineups vs Colorado Rapids

Heading into the match against Colorado Rapids, Inter Miami CF are dealing with key absences, as Sergio Reguilón and David Ayala are unavailable, while Tadeo Allende remains a doubt due to injury. As a result, head coach Guillermo Hoyos may opt not to make many changes to the starting lineup, sticking closely to the setup from the previous match, with Lionel Messi and Luis Suárez expected to be key in securing the win.

With this in mind, the Herons could play as follows: Dayne St Clair; Ian Fray, Maximiliano Falcón, Micael, Dániel Pintér; Rodrigo de Paul, Yannick Bright, Telasco Segovia, Matteo Silvetti; Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez.