At Inter Miami, the place the aura of Lionel Messi looms massive, it looks as if a recurring theme – a tease, a tantalizing whisper after which a collective sigh of disappointment.
The seven-time Ballon d’Or profitable Argentine sensation is the jewel in Inter Miami’s crown, however currently, it’s been a rollercoaster journey of hope and heartache for followers as they await his return from the shadows of harm.
Over the weekend the narrative remained unchanged as Messi, nursing a leg harm of undisclosed severity, was conspicuously absent from the lineup in opposition to New York City FC, a conflict laden with Major League Soccer playoff implications for either side.
The announcement of Messi’s absence got here simply 45 minutes earlier than kickoff, leaving followers each anxious and curious.
Yet, Inter Miami, even in Messi’s absence, showcased their indomitable spirit.
Tomas Aviles notched a dramatic header in stoppage time, rescuing a worthwhile level and forging a 1-1 draw.
Prior to Aviles’ heroics, it was Santiago Rodriguez who had given NYCFC the lead with a 77th-minute strike.
Messi’s travails have grow to be a matter of concern.
He has now missed 4 of Inter Miami’s final 5 matches, and this hiatus extends to his nationwide obligation, the place he had initially been sidelined for what was labeled as “fatigue.”
However, it has since metamorphosed into one thing extra sinister.
His sole look on this interval, a mere 37 minutes in opposition to Toronto on Sept. 20, ended prematurely on account of what seems to be a nagging hamstring challenge.
The playoff dream nonetheless glints for Inter Miami, but it surely took a blow over the weekend.
Their future is not inside their grasp, with a four-point chasm separating them from Montreal for the coveted ninth and closing playoff spot within the Eastern Conference.
With simply 4 matches left for Inter Miami and three for Montreal, the race is now extra nail-biting than ever.
NYCFC, however, ascended to eighth place within the East, because of this pulsating draw.
As for Messi’s future function on this high-stakes saga, it stays shrouded in uncertainty, leaving fervent followers who shelled out a whole lot of {dollars} for match tickets in a state of perpetual suspense.
The lack of transparency surrounding Messi’s situation has triggered outrage on social media.
Fans vented their frustrations, demanding readability from the membership.
“Post the squad and don’t fool your own fans. Have some shame,” one remark learn, whereas one other implored, “Can y’all be clear about what’s occurring with Messi?”
Beyond Messi’s harm saga, there’s one other storm brewing in Inter Miami’s teacup.
The membership not too long ago despatched out season-ticket renewal notices, and the value hikes are sending shock waves by way of the fan base.
Prices within the part housing the membership’s most passionate supporters are set to surge by a whopping 82% in 2024.
Some seats close to midfield will see costs soar by 98%, whereas different followers brace for over 100% will increase.
Certainly, the expectation was that costs would rise, given Messi’s astronomical wage, which averages over $50 million yearly.
However, it’s evident that the membership is already basking in newfound income streams.
In a surprising revelation, MLS disclosed that Messi’s jersey is the top-selling merchandise within the league this season.
This exceptional feat is especially exceptional contemplating Messi and Sergio Busquets, each within the prime jersey-selling ranks, solely joined Inter Miami in July, nicely after the season had kicked off.
Messi’s influence on the pitch has been simple.
With 11 objectives in 12 matches for Inter Miami this season, his presence has been synonymous with success, with the crew boasting an undefeated document of 8-0-4 when he graces the sphere.
Notably, this run included a historic Leagues Cup triumph, a testomony to Messi’s potential to steer his new crew to glory.
However, issues loom in regards to the pressure of his relentless schedule.
In Messi’s absence, Inter Miami has stuttered, managing only one win in 5 matches.
The distinction in efficiency is stark, with the crew outscoring opponents 29-12 when Messi is in motion however struggling at 13-11 when he is on the sidelines.
Source: www.dailysabah.com