Lionel Messi is widely regarded as the GOAT, but even legends like him face the effects of aging. At 37, the Inter Miami star still delivers moments of brilliance, though he isn’t as fast or as durable as before. This season, Messi missed nearly half of the MLS regular season due to injuries and national team obligations.
He is set to rejoin the Argentine national team in October for World Cup qualifiers. In 103 minutes against Charlotte FC, Messi netted his 15th goal in 16 MLS appearances this season.
On Tuesday, Franco Panizo spoke with Inter Miami assistant coach Javier Morales about Messi’s condition as the regular season winds down.
Javier Morales on Lionel Messi:
When asked about Messi appearing tired, with hands on his sides or knees during the Charlotte game, Morales responded, “(Messi) made a deep run in the 90th minute and was nearly fouled. Leo is a player who finds his rhythm as he plays.
“He may have been out of breath early, but as the game progressed, he improved. His GPS stats were above average, and we hope he continues to improve against Columbus.”
Lionel Messi is still working his way back to full fitness, according to Morales, who noted that while Messi showed fatigue early in the match, his performance improved. Inter Miami faces the Columbus Crew next, potentially previewing a playoff matchup.
