Lionel Messi, the renowned footballer, was included among the substitutes for Inter Miami in their recent preseason match against Vissel Kobe in Tokyo. This decision came after he missed the previous game due to an adductor injury. His absence in the previous match had led to disappointment from the country’s government, highlighting the significance of Messi’s presence in the team.
In a statement to reporters, Messi mentioned feeling “very good compared to a few days ago” but expressed uncertainty about his fitness level for the upcoming match. He indicated that his playing decision would depend on how the training sessions progressed. This uncertainty adds a layer of suspense to Messi’s potential contribution to the team in the game against Vissel Kobe.
The match saw Sergio Busquets, Jordi Alba, and Luis Suárez included in Gerardo “Tata” Martino’s starting lineup. However, Busquets had to be substituted midway through the first half due to an ankle injury, showcasing the physical challenges faced by players in such high-intensity games. The match also carried sentimental value as former Barcelona player Andrés Iniesta, who had previously played for Vissel Kobe before transitioning to Emirates, was involved on the opposition side.
Inter Miami’s performance in the preseason has been mixed, with only one win against the Hong Kong team. Despite victories, the team faced defeats against Al Hilal and Al Nassr from the Saudi Pro League. Messi’s limited appearance in the Al Nassr match, coupled with Cristiano Ronaldo’s absence due to injury, raises questions about the team’s lineup strategy and reliance on key players during crucial games.
Messi’s inclusion in the substitutes for Inter Miami’s match against Vissel Kobe highlights both his significance to the team and the uncertainties surrounding his fitness level and playing time. The team’s mixed preseason performance underscores the challenges faced in preparing for upcoming competitive fixtures. As the season progresses, it will be interesting to see how Messi’s presence and performance impact Inter Miami’s overall success on the field.
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