As MLS approaches the playoffs, Lionel Messi is helping Inter Miami aim for a postseason spot. However, the team faces a setback as a young midfielder will miss the rest of the regular season.
Honduran midfielder David Ruiz will be absent for the remainder of the 2025 MLS regular season after having surgery for a lingering muscle issue that has affected him throughout the year, according to Inter Miami insider Jose Armando.
The 21-year-old has struggled with fitness, resulting in only seven appearances this season. There were times when injuries kept him off the field, while coach Javier Mascherano sometimes chose not to play him.
Ruiz’s absence is a major loss for an Inter Miami team that is already coping with several injuries, which limits Mascherano’s options as they prepare for six challenging matches leading to the playoffs.
David Ruiz #41 of Inter Miami CF during a game against the Columbus Crew. (Jason Mowry/Getty Images)
Inter Miami’s demanding schedule
The team is facing a tough stretch with seven matches in 22 days. After a loss to Charlotte FC, Miami rebounded with victories against Seattle Sounders and D.C. United, keeping their hopes for the top spot in the Eastern Conference alive.
Next, Miami travels to New York City FC at Citi Field, followed by a visit to Toronto FC. They will finish this busy period with home games against Chicago Fire and New England Revolution.
The pressure is on: not losing to NYCFC would secure Miami’s place in the MLS Cup Playoffs. This milestone would be a relief for Mascherano, especially since he is already missing Allen Obando and suspended midfielder Telasco Segovia, along with Ruiz’s injury.