Messi Sidelined: The Real Reason Inter Miami's Superstar Misses Crucial Pumas UNAM Clash

Inter Miami must navigate their crucial Leagues Cup Phase One concluding match against Pumas UNAM without the services of Lionel Messi.

Manager Javier Mascherano has confirmed that Messi will miss Wednesday evening's decisive encounter. The eight-time Ballon d'Or recipient picked up a minor muscle problem in his right leg during the Herons' 2–2 stalemate with Necaxa and remains unavailable for the clash with Pumas UNAM.

Inter Miami has not provided a specific timeframe for Messi's comeback, though Mascherano and the organization remain hopeful that the Argentine superstar won't face an extended absence from action.

"I had a conversation with him. The club released a statement that was quite clear. It's a minor setback, so within the disappointing news, there's a positive aspect," Mascherano explained during his pre-game media session.

"We prefer not to predict a comeback date, particularly with Leo. He typically bounces back excellently from setbacks and usually does so quite rapidly."

While awaiting Messi's comeback, Inter Miami must discover a method to progress to the Leagues Cup elimination rounds without their star performer. The former Barcelona icon tops the Herons' scoring charts with 24 goals in all competitions, while also contributing nine assists.

The responsibility will fall on Luis Suárez to end his goal drought and spearhead the Herons' offensive efforts against a Liga MX opponent that has managed only one shutout in their previous eight outings.

The positive development for Inter Miami is that Maximiliano Falcón can feature in the Phase One decider following the overturning of his disputed dismissal.

Provided Mascherano's squad manages to claim victory in regular time against Pumas UNAM, they will secure their place in the Leagues Cup quarterfinals, scheduled to commence on Aug. 19 and 20.