Messi Sits Out Inter Miami vs. Houston Dynamo—Here’s Why

Houston fans were buzzing with excitement as Inter Miami rolled into town, hoping to witness Lionel Messi’s magic firsthand. But to their disappointment, the Argentine superstar didn’t make the trip.

Messi’s Absence: Not Injury-Related

Despite initial concerns, multiple reports confirmed that Messi isn’t injured. According to ESPN, his absence is purely precautionary, as Miami manages his workload with multiple tournaments on the horizon. The 36-year-old legend is expected to return for Miami’s CONCACAF Champions Cup clash against Cavalier FC in Fort Lauderdale on Thursday.

Messi, along with Luis Suárez and Sergio Busquets, was subbed off in the 69th minute during Miami’s last match. But head coach Javier Mascherano assured reporters that the decision was planned.

“Leo is fine. He is OK. He will train normally like the rest of his teammates,” Mascherano said on Friday, dismissing any injury fears.

A Packed Stadium—But No Messi

The Dynamo’s home stadium was set for a sellout crowd of 22,000, eager to see the World Cup champion in action. Messi has already made an impact this season, tallying two goals and two assists in just three matches, helping Miami advance past Sporting KC in the CONCACAF Champions Cup.

But the fans in Houston will have to wait for another chance to see the icon live.

Winning MLS Picks, Expert Advice

Handicapping Membership

Get Free Trial

Both Teams Searching for First MLS Win

Inter Miami (0-0-1) and Houston Dynamo (0-1-0) both came into this match still looking for their first MLS victory of the season. Miami opened with a 2-2 draw against NYCFC, while Houston fell 2-1 to FC Dallas.

Adding to Miami’s lineup concerns, goalkeeper Drake Callender remains questionable with an adductor injury. However, veteran Oscar Ustari has stepped up between the posts.

A Missed Opportunity for Fellow Argentines

For Houston’s Franco Escobar and Ezequiel Ponce, Messi’s absence was a personal disappointment. Both players are from Rosario—Messi’s hometown—and grew up playing for Newell’s Old Boys, the same club where Messi trained as a kid.

Escobar even has a tattoo of Messi kissing the World Cup trophy inked on his thigh. Before news broke that Messi wouldn’t play, he spoke about how much the matchup meant to him.

“It’s going to be something very special for me, a memory I’ll carry forever,” Escobar told USA Today Sports. “For me, he’s the best player in history. Playing against him would have been an unforgettable experience.”

What’s Next for Messi & Inter Miami?

While fans in Houston may have missed out, Messi will likely return on Thursday as Inter Miami continues its CONCACAF Champions Cup campaign. With a packed schedule ahead, managing his minutes early in the season seems like a strategic move to keep him fresh for the big moments.

Houston will have to wait for another chance to witness the GOAT in action. But for now, all eyes are on his return later this week.