Lionel Messi, the world-renowned forward for Inter Miami CF, will not be playing against the Houston Dynamo on March 2, 2025, due to rest management decisions made by the coaching staff. Fans had high hopes to see the legendary player take the field at Shell Energy Stadium.
The announcement, reported by Michelle Kaufman of the Miami Herald, confirmed Messi did not travel with the team to Houston. He remains back home to recuperate due to the demanding schedule Inter Miami faces. After recent matches, including back-to-back games against Sporting Kansas City and their MLS season opener against New York City FC, the decision was made to sideline the Argentine star temporarily.
“Leo is fine... He will train normally like the rest of his teammates,” said Inter Miami's head coach Javier Mascherano, emphasizing Messi’s load management rather than any injuries keeping him off the pitch. Resting Messi is part of the strategy to maintain his peak performance, especially with upcoming matches, including one against Jamaica’s Cavalier SC on March 6, which is the first leg of the Concacaf Champions Cup.
The decision not to play Messi sparked frustration among Dynamo fans. The match sold out, with ticket prices soaring as high as $223 before plunging after the news of his absence spread. Houston Dynamo stated, “Unfortunately, we have no control over who plays for our opponent,” acknowledging the disappointment felt by the supporters who came hoping to see Messi's performance.
This isn't the first time the absence of Messi has echoed disappointment across Major League Soccer (MLS). Fans of the Chicago Fire expressed outrage when he didn't make the trip last year, leading to ticket rebates as compensation. Similarly, the Vancouver Whitecaps were met with legal action when Messi, along with other star teammates, failed to show up for highly promoted matches.
For the match against Houston, the Dynamo announced they would provide complimentary tickets to those interested in attending another match later this season. This initiative was created to mitigate the frustration from attendees who mainly anticipated Messi's appearance.
Messi’s absence raises significant discussions about how MLS clubs manage their superstar players within the expansive season filled with travel. The 37-year-old has certainly defied age expectations, already reaching significant milestones, including being the fastest to achieve 40 goal contributions within just 26 regular-season games. Yet, as his physical capacity continues to dictate schedules, each missed appearance drives home the reality of modern sports management.
Onlookers can point to the trend seen over the last year, as many clubs prepare for Messi's sporadic appearances. Among Miami's extensive travel schedule are future matches slated against Minnesota United, Columbus Crew, and his potential return to Chicago where he played last season. The urgency to manage such talent carefully is becoming clear as clubs learn from past experiences.
Despite this, Messi’s contributions to Inter Miami, including clinching the 2023 Leagues Cup and securing the 2024 MLS Supporters’ Shield, solidify his status as one of the league's brightest stars. Followers of the team remain optimistic about his future performances, especially as the season progresses and more hostile crowds await his presence.
Inter Miami's next MLS match against Charlotte FC on March 9 is anticipated to showcase Messi as he returns to the field, reaffirming fans' excitement and the club's prospects as they aim for success within the league. The organization continues to balance managing its star player against the expectations of its dedicated supporters craving every moment of lionel Messi magic on American soil.