Messi's Fitness Decision Rocks Inter Miami vs. LAFC Showdown—Latest Injury Updates and Starting XI Revealed
Current MLS Cup holders Inter Miami CF begin their 2026 season on Saturday evening with a marquee matchup away to LAFC.
Following an offseason filled with festivities and triumph, the Herons must now turn their focus to title defense, starting with a demanding journey to Los Angeles. Son Heung-min and Denis Bouanga pose the primary dangers that need careful monitoring, particularly following their outstanding displays in the Concacaf Champions Cup during the week.
Nevertheless, Javier Mascherano's Miami team will consider themselves equals to any opponent this season after their remarkable 2025 run, with Lionel Messi still spearheading a talent-rich roster.
Match Snapshot
Match Snapshot
Team News
Team News
Star player Messi caused worry among Miami fans after picking up a hamstring problem in the team's last preseason match, but the Argentine has resumed practice and will almost definitely play on Saturday.
The situation differs for new addition Sergio Reguilón, though, as the ex-Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United defender remains sidelined with a knee issue.
First appearances will happen in other positions, however. Dayne St. Clair will take his place in goal, while loan signing Micael, midfielder David Ayala and new marquee forward Germán Berterame are all expected to start.
Inter Miami Predicted Lineup vs. LAFC (4-2-3-1)
Inter Miami Predicted Lineup vs. LAFC (4-2-3-1)
GK: Dayne St. Clair—Replacing Oscar Ustari between the posts, the outstanding former Minnesota United shot-stopper, crowned 2025 MLS Goalkeeper of the Year, must remain vigilant in his debut competitive outing for the Herons.
RB: Ian Fray—The Jamaica international will start the season at right-back but encounters rivalry from new signing Facundo Mura.
CB: Maximiliano Falcón—Beginning his sophomore year with Miami, Falcón is guaranteed to face constant pressure from players like Bouanga, Son and Timothy Tillman.
CB: Micael—Brought in from Palmeiras on loan, Micael contributes valuable MLS knowledge to the defense, having previously played for Houston Dynamo before his return to Brazil.
LB: Noah Allen—The young talent keeps making strides with Miami and aims to match his outstanding 2025 performance.
DM: David Ayala—The Argentine received a red card in Miami's last preseason game against Ecuadorian club Barcelona SC, but fortunately this won't carry over to Miami's season opener.
DM: Rodrigo De Paul—The World Cup champion created an instant impression upon joining midway through 2025 and will undoubtedly be crucial to Miami's ambitions this year after making his move permanent.
RW: Tadeo Allende—Another Argentine who has made his loan permanent is Allende, who seeks to continue his remarkable 20-goal MLS campaign. Celebrating his 27th birthday on Friday, a belated gift might await.
AM: Lionel Messi—Having overcome a minor hamstring setback, the 2025 MLS MVP and top scorer is ready to launch the new season in style. He boasts five goal contributions in three previous encounters with LAFC.
LW: Mateo Silvetti—Silvetti seeks a larger role under Mascherano this campaign and his regular appearances in all three preseason games suggests positive signs for the prospect.
ST: Germán Berterame—The $15 million Mexican appears set to edge out Luis Suárez for the starting position in Los Angeles. Following 68 goals at Monterrey, Miami have high expectations for the eight-time international.