Will Lionel Messi play tonight for Inter Miami vs Charlotte FC in MLS 2026?

Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami are the reigning MLS Cup champions

Bank of America Stadium in North Carolina gears up to host the Matchweek 4 fixtures of the MLS Eastern Conference, where the home team Charlotte FC will lock horns against Inter Miami.

Inter Miami are placed third in the MLS points table behind New York City FC and Nashville. After a 3-0 defeat to LAFC in their opening game, Miami did well to secure consecutive wins over Orlando City and DC United. They are coming after a goalless draw against Nashville in the CONCACAF Champions Cup first leg.

This is just the beginning of the new season, and Javier Mascherano will have the luxury to pick his best combination from a fully fit and available side. In such an important game, Lionel Messi’s absence or presence could massively impact the match and the result. Let’s find out whether the Argentine legend will be playing tonight or not.

Will Lionel Messi play tonight against Charlotte?

Lionel Messi is fully fit and available for the Charlotte match tonight. Messi should be in the starting lineup. Miami have a tight schedule, playing four games in a span of a fortnight. The defending American champions must win the next game to climb higher in the MLS Points table and to extend their winning streak to three.

Taking a look at their opponents, Charlotte FC have won, lost and drawn one game each in their last three outings. They are coming after 3-1 win over 10-man Austin, and former Leicester City and Brentford gaffer Dean Smith will be looking forward to make the most of Charlotte’s home advantage.

Charlotte had one of the best defences last season and has continued to show composure, except for that game against Los Angeles FC. Lionel Messi’s ability to operate in tight spaces will be key as Miami will be looking forward to breaking the low block, and he is also a threat during set pieces.

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