Unexpected decision! Has Messi made the starting lineup for the match against the New York Red Bulls in MLS?
Lionel Messi will start the MLS regular-season match against the New York Red Bulls on the bench. The Inter Miami coaching staff's decision came as a surprise, given the Argentine superstar's statistics this season.
The Florida club has already secured its place in the playoffs, but the captain's absence from the starting lineup for the upcoming fixture has drawn particular attention from fans. The reasons behind the decision have not yet been disclosed.
Despite his age, Messi continues to deliver outstanding numbers. This season, the 39-year-old forward has scored 29 goals and provided 14 assists in 32 matches for the club across all competitions. That gives him 43 goal contributions already.
For Inter Miami, losing a player of this caliber from the starting lineup could prove a serious test. However, Messi could still make an appearance during the match if the coaching staff decides to bring the Argentine on as a substitute.
Jan Novak
Dailysports's expert
