Messi could play in the US Cup final

US coach Gerardo Martino said captain Lionel Messi could return to action when Inter Miami face Houston Dynamo in the US Cup final on September 28.

* Inter Miami - Houston Dynamo: 7:30 a.m. September 28, Hanoi time.

At a press conference on September 26, Martino said he and Messi would decide before the match whether the Argentine striker would start. However, defender Jordi Alba is unlikely to return in time.

"We know that the fans want to know the truth. We don't want to be mysterious," Martino said. "If it's not Messi, no one will care, so there's no need to exaggerate. We need to consider how long a player needs to rest before he can return."

Messi on the training ground with Inter Miami on September 26. Photo: Inter Miami FC — Messi on the training ground with Inter Miami on September 26. Photo: *Inter Miami FC*

In the US Cup semi-finals on August 24, Messi contributed two assists, helping Inter Miami draw Cincinnati 3-3 in regulation time. In the penalty shootout, the Argentine star also scored successfully, helping his team win 5-4 and advance to the final.

In the final on the morning of September 28, Hanoi time, Inter Miami has the advantage of playing at home against DRV PNK. However, Houston Dynamo has the advantage in terms of media coverage as they have won the MLS championship twice in 2016 and 2017 and the National Cup in 2018.

"If it wasn't a final, we would take any risk," Martino added of the possibility of using Messi. "It's a final, it can last 90 or 120 minutes and bring a title. If it were another normal match, we wouldn't risk his health."

Due to injury and having to join the Argentina national team, Messi missed three of Inter Miami's last four matches, including matches against Atlanta United, Orlando City and Sporting FC. But in the remaining match against Toronto FC, the 36-year-old star left the field in the first half due to injury.

Since the Messi deal was announced, Inter Miami ticket prices have skyrocketed, leaving fans disappointed to enter the stadium and not be able to see the Argentine star play. Sergio Busquets understands the frustration of the fans and sees Messi's absence as a major disadvantage for Inter Miami. "We want to play every game, but not like a machine or a robot," the Spanish midfielder said. "The most important thing is that we look at the long-term interests of the team. Messi being out is a pity for everyone, not just the fans."

When asked about the possibility of Messi returning in time for the US Cup final, Busquets replied: "That makes a significant difference in the team. We will wait, hoping he can play and help the team. If not, Inter Miami has other players. We will try to make a difference and be ready to play our best."

Previously, Messi scored 10 goals, contributing greatly to helping Inter Miami win the 2023 Leagues Cup and win a double of individual awards - Top Scorer and Best Player of the Tournament. The Leagues Cup is also Inter Miami's first title after 5 years of establishment.

Hong Duy

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