Lionel Messi did not start in Inter Miami’s game against Atlanta United on Wednesday night. The decision was made by coach Gerardo Martino to prevent overworking Messi, who recently returned from an injury during a busy period for the team. Luis Suárez, another key player for Miami, was also named as a substitute for the match.

Despite not playing in Atlanta last year, Messi was present in the stadium this time, potentially setting him up for a second-half appearance. Messi, who is 37 years old and a multiple Ballon d’Or winner, made a remarkable return to Miami’s lineup in a recent game against the Philadelphia Union, scoring two goals and providing an assist in a 3-1 victory.

Inter Miami currently holds the best record in Major League Soccer and aims to secure home-field advantage throughout the playoffs. Messi had been absent from the team since June 1 due to national team commitments and a right ankle injury sustained during the Copa America final on July 14.

Despite the heat and humidity of Miami, Messi expressed his eagerness to return to the pitch after a lengthy absence, stating that he started feeling better as he resumed training with the team. Messi had 14 goals and 14 assists in league play so far this season, despite only playing 13 matches.

Suarez, with 17 goals this season, played a significant role in the victory against Philadelphia by assisting one of Messi’s goals and scoring another from a Messi assist during stoppage time in the second half. The matchup with Atlanta United drew a large crowd to Mercedes-Benz Stadium, with fans eagerly anticipating the potential involvement of Messi in the game.