Lionel Messi did not play against Charlotte because Inter Miami had to play down a man after Oscar Ustari's early red card.

Messi, who has had several injury issues since moving to MLS, is to miss a second consecutive game against Cavalier in the CONCACAF Champions Cup.

Inter Miami have been extremely protective of their legendary superstar ever since Lionel Messi joined the club in the summer of 2023, even as questions are raised about his fitness after multiple matches missed.

Lionel Messi won’t be playing for Inter Miami CF on Sunday night against the Houston Dynamo, according to reports from Michelle Kaufman of the Miami Herald.

Inter Miami's sporting project continues to take shape. Along with preserving their unbeaten record in 2025, Javier Mascherano has brought in another Argentine young player to provide additional support for Lionel Messi.