Inter Miami manager Gerardo Martino, also known as Tata Martino, has offered insights into the matter of resting Lionel Messi. The former Argentine manager hinted that the 36-year-old is his own boss when it comes to understanding when he needs to rest.
Martino disclosed that Messi will remain in the starting lineup for the Miami-based club until he himself indicates the need for rest. In his seven appearances for Inter Miami, Messi has made a notable mark, commencing with his debut against CD Cruz Azul.
These appearances were exclusively within the Leagues Cup, a tournament that recently culminated with Inter Miami securing victory in the final against Nashville. During these seven outings, Messi has accumulated a total of 594 minutes on the field. This encompasses four complete 90-minute matches and an additional 120 minutes in the final.
It’s particularly remarkable that the 36-year-old Messi, who celebrated his birthday in June, has showcased impressive fitness through his performances with Inter Miami, all achieved without the benefit of a formal pre-season.
Lift it high, @InterMiamiCF! 🙌 pic.twitter.com/Y6nNOIZofq
— Major League Soccer (@MLS) August 20, 2023
Notably, Messi has contributed 10 goals and an assist across these seven appearances, with a US Open Cup semi-final against Cincinnati on the horizon.
Martino also provided an update on Messi’s status, confirming that the 36-year-old World Cup winner will not be afforded rest during Inter Miami’s forthcoming US Open Cup fixture. While speaking to reporters, Martino shared, “That is a conversation we had a few days ago, that he should rest, and recover every 3-4 days, clearly Wednesday will not be that day, but you all know how he is, he likes to play. So, as long as he doesn’t mention anything, he will keep on playing.”
This robust state of fitness stands as reassuring news for Inter Miami fans, who surely wish to witness the Argentine maestro on the pitch for every conceivable minute.
Lionel Messi became the most decorated player after League Cup Triumph
Lionel Messi’s Leagues Cup triumph with Inter Miami stands as a momentous milestone, elevating him to the pinnacle of football’s history. With this victory, Messi ascended to a record-breaking status, securing an astounding tally of 44 trophies over nearly two decades.
The trajectory of Messi’s trophy-laden journey traces back to his emergence as a 17-year-old. In the 2004-05 season, he clinched his inaugural trophy when Barcelona secured the La Liga title. This initial success was merely a prelude to a remarkable saga of accolades.
Lionel Messi now becomes the most decorated player in football history with 44 titles since 2004 to 2023. ✨🇦🇷 pic.twitter.com/6qFbg5gtq5
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 20, 2023
Throughout his illustrious career, the left-footed virtuoso has consistently gathered every conceivable honor. This encompasses triumphs in the most prestigious competitions, including the 2022 FIFA World Cup, the 2021 Copa America, the 2008 Olympic Gold Medal, and the U20 World Cup with Argentina.
At the club level, Messi’s resplendent cabinet features an impressive collection: 12 league titles split between FC Barcelona and PSG, four UEFA Champions League titles, and an array of cup accolades.
Notably, Messi’s attainment of 44 trophies secures his place above former Barcelona teammate Dani Alves, who held 43 trophies in his distinguished career.
A notable contrast emerges when considering Messi’s perennial rival, Cristiano Ronaldo, who has clinched 35 trophies. Ronaldo’s most recent victory came with Al-Nassr in the Arab Club Championship Cup.