Fans speculating on Lionel Messi’s participation in Inter Miami’s friendly matches ahead of the Major League Soccer (MLS) season can find relief. The US-based club, owned by David Beckham, is “contractually obliged” to feature its “best players” in specific fixtures.

Amid a packed pre-season schedule against teams like El Salvador, FC Dallas, Al-Hilal, and others, Inter Miami aims to manage player workload, considering the physical and mental strain of the busy agenda.

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Tata Martino, Inter Miami’s head coach, emphasizes the goal of beginning the pre-season with the entire squad. However, decisions on player participation will be influenced by physical assessments as the season progresses. Martino acknowledges the contractual obligation to include the best players but emphasizes the need for balance if the team faces an increased number of matches.

While facing Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al-Nassr in the Riyadh Cup on February 1, Messi’s Inter Miami gears up for the MLS season opener against Real Salt Lake on February 21. The club remains focused on navigating the demanding schedule while ensuring the optimal performance of their star players.