Will Lionel Messi Play for Inter Miami vs. LAFC in Concacaf Champions Cup Quarterfinals? | OneFootball

All eyes are on Lionel Messi as Inter Miami travel to Los Angeles to take on LAFC in the first leg of the Concacaf Champions Cup quarterfinals.

The start of Messi's 2025 campaign with the Herons has been marred by injury and fitness concerns. The 37-year-old already missed three of Inter Miami's nine matches across all competitions this season, and has only played a full 90 minutes three times.

Messi most recently suffered a minor muscle injury in the adductor area that prevented him from representing Argentina during the international break. The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner returned in Inter Miami's 2–1 victory over Philadelphia Union at the weekend, though, and scored the winner for his side in just two minutes on the pitch.

With less than four days between the MLS match and the first leg of the Concacaf Champions Cup quarterfinals, Inter Miami are undoubtedly proceeding with caution when it comes to their captain.

Will Lionel Messi Play for Inter Miami vs. LAFC in Concacaf Champions Cup Quarterfinals?

Yes, Messi will likely play for Inter Miami when the Herons take on LAFC in the first leg of the Concacaf Champions Cup quarterfinals. The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner traveled with the team to Los Angeles and will be available to feature in Wednesday's clash.

Inter Miami are still monitoring Messi's minutes, though. It is possible the forward only features off the bench for a second half cameo, similar to his appearance against Philadelphia Union.

Mascherano issued an update on Messi's status ahead of the Concacaf Champions Cup quarterfinals.

"I expect that Leo will be fit [against LAFC] and he can play but at the end you will know at the beginning of the game," said Mascherano. "The most important thing is that he finished the match against Philadelphia well. The reality is that we returned to training [on Monday]. We gave them a rest on Sunday, so today we'll see how they feel."

Even if Messi is still not ready to play 90 minutes, the 37-year-old showed just how impactful he can be off the bench at the weekend. Should the Herons need a spark against LAFC, Messi is more than capable of putting in another super sub performance.

Barring any unexpected issues, all signs point to Messi making an appearance against the Black and Gold at BMO Stadium on Apr. 2.