Inter Miami is preparing to play in the quarterfinals of the 2025 Leagues Cup against TigresUNAL. The Herons will play at Chase Stadium against the Mexican team, but there is more worry in regards to Lionel Messi.
After suffering an injury against Necaxa in early August, Messi returned to action over the weekend against LA Galaxy in the MLS. He played the second half after starting on the bench.
Messi scored and assisted in Inter Miami’s 3-1 win over LA Galaxy. Many noticed that something wasn’t right with Messi as the star kept touching his leg and immediately walked off the pitch as the final whistle blew.
Lionel Messi scores an unbelievable goal 🤩 pic.twitter.com/R4ZzE25Frx
— GOAL (@goal) August 18, 2025
Many were concerned that Messi had injured himself again, and head coach Javier Mascherano did not confirm whether the player was hurt or not after the game against LA Galaxy.
Messi appeared in recovery training with the team just days before the game tomorrow against Tigres, but new reports suggest that his participation against the Mexican team in the Leagues Cup is in doubt.
Lionel Messi In Doubt vs Tigres
According to Jose Armando, Messi is in doubt to play against Tigres after missing Inter Miami’s training session. The Argentinian star appeared at the training facility a day before.
Lionel Messi está ausente del entrenamiento de esta mañana de Inter Miami.
Queda oficialmente en duda para el partido frente a Tigres.#InterMiamiCF#Messipic.twitter.com/ygqB3B4GME
— José Armando (@Jarm21) August 19, 2025
None of the players after the training session hinted at Messi being potentially injured again. Inter Miami defender Marcelo Weigandt spoke to the media about Messi and his impressive performance over the weekend.
Weigandt gives hope, suggesting that Messi recovers quickly, as if he never suffered an injury. He backs the claim with his two-goal contributions against the LA Galaxy.
Marcelo Weigandt: “I think having Leo in every match is exceptional. Last time he came on in the second half and did amazing things. He was injured, and honestly, he came back as if he was never injured at all. For me, it’s really wonderful to share the team with him daily and also in every match.”
Tigres UNAL Coach Expects Messi To Play
Tigres coach Guido Pizarro spoke ahead of the game against Inter Miami and gave an insight into what his team will be focusing on. That focus revolves around Lionel Messi, and the Argentinian coach is expecting the Inter Miami star to play.
With Messi missing the training session, Tigres may not have to worry about him from the start of the game. Messi could still make an appearance in the second half, similar to the game against LA Galaxy.
Guido Pizarro: “Facing the best player in the world is a great challenge. Messi is a great player; we must prepare well for him and his team.”
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Aug 19, 2025, where it first appeared in the Soccer section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.