Messi Bypasses Ecuador Trip to Concentrate on Inter Miami and MLS Goals

Lionel Messi shone in Buenos Aires, scoring twice in Argentina’s 3-0 victory over Venezuela. However, he will not participate in the final World Cup qualifier for the team. As reported by TyC Sports, Messi decided with coach Lionel Scaloni to head back to Florida early and rejoin Inter Miami, as the MLS season intensifies.

Messi explained his decision after recovering from a recent injury. “I spoke to Leo. He suggested I rest. I had an injury that sidelined me for 15 days. Even though I feel good now, we decided against another trip and game. We are focused on MLS, and that’s a priority,” he shared.

Scaloni supported this choice, telling reporters that Messi was “pretty fatigued” and would not play against Ecuador in Guayaquil on September 9. The coach also noted that it was “deserved for him to spend time with his family” after an emotional goodbye at home.

This decision keeps Messi tied with Ecuador’s Iván Hurtado at 72 appearances, missing the chance to set a new record for most games in South American qualifiers. However, he did increase his all-time scoring record to 36 goals and leads the current campaign with eight goals. His next focus will be on Inter Miami as the MLS season progresses.