Inter Miami head coach Gerardo “Tata” Martino confirmed that Lionel Messi will not be featuring in the team’s Leagues Cup round-of-32 clash against Toronto FC. Messi, who recently returned from Copa América with an ankle injury, has not yet trained with the team since his return. Martino mentioned in a news conference that Messi is improving every day, but he is currently training in the gym instead of on the field.
On the other hand, Luis Suárez will be available for the upcoming match against Toronto FC. Suárez had been dealing with a recurrent knee injury that forced him to miss the 2024 MLS All Star match in Columbus, Ohio, as well as the team’s final group stage game against Tigres on August 3. Martino confirmed that Suárez has been training well and will be part of the squad for the clash at Chase Stadium.
Benjamin Cremaschi and Diego Gómez are also set to rejoin the team after returning from international duty. Cremaschi represented the U.S. in the Paris Olympics, reaching the quarterfinals before losing to Morocco, while Gómez played for Paraguay until the quarterfinals. Martino stated that both players are in good condition and fit to be used in the upcoming match against Toronto FC.
With most of the squad available, Miami’s goal is to secure a victory against Toronto at home to progress to the next round of the tournament. Martino emphasized the importance of playing with intensity and facing the challenge posed by Toronto FC, despite their current position in the table. He highlighted the difficulty of the upcoming match and the need for the team to perform at their best in order to emerge victorious.
Inter Miami will be without Lionel Messi but will have Luis Suárez back in the lineup for their clash against Toronto FC. The return of Cremaschi and Gómez adds depth to the squad as they aim to secure a spot in the next round of the Leagues Cup tournament. Martino’s emphasis on intensity and performance underscores the team’s determination to succeed in the upcoming match.