Atlanta United will likely face Inter Miami this weekend with a fully fit Lionel Messi after the forward was rested by Argentina.
The 36-year-old attacker was unused in the South American giant’s 1-0 win away to Bolivia, with Messi picking up a small injury in training for Argentina.
Whilst it’s unknown if Messi will feature against Atlanta, the chances of Inter Miami now naming the forward in their squad seems almost certain.
Messi has already embarrassed the Five Stripes once this season in the Leagues Cup groups stage, where the forward bagged a brace in an incredible 4-0 win for Inter Miami.
With Atlanta an improved squad with more numbers in the attack, though, Gonzalo Pineda’s side could be in a good position to hand Messi his first loss as an Inter Miami player.
However, given how good Tata Martino has made the Herons, Atlanta won’t be in for an easy game this weekend, even with home advantage.
Atlanta United have to make a statement against Messi
Messi is yet to taste defeat as an Inter Miami player, with Martino also not being on the losing side since taking charge of the Florida side since the Argentine’s arrival.
Yet Atlanta could make a massive statement at Mercedes-Benz with a win against Inter Miami, and one that could put the MLS giants on the road to the playoffs.
Indeed, it won’t be an easy game for Atlanta, yet a statement win against Inter Miami will be massive for the Five Stripes, though Messi’s fitness will be key.