Messi forced to choose between Inter Miami and Argentina

Lionel Messi is staring down a scheduling dilemma that could force him to choose between representing Argentina or suiting up for Inter Miami in a crucial MLS matchup.

Fixtures backlog

Due to overlapping commitments from the FIFA international break, the Club World Cup, and the Leagues Cup, Inter Miami will be forced to play during the October FIFA window. That means Messi’s club showdown against Atlanta United—rescheduled due to tournament conflicts—will take place just one day after Argentina’s friendly against Venezuela on October 10, both games happening in Miami.

While the proximity of both matches offers a logistical advantage, it’s highly unlikely Messi will play back-to-back games with less than 24 hours between them. Argentina has already qualified for the next World Cup, and the match against Venezuela is purely preparatory. That could sway Messi toward prioritizing his national team, led by Javier Mascherano.

What’s at stake for Inter Miami?

Inter Miami’s playoff hopes took a hit after a surprising loss to the Chicago Fire on Tuesday night. The defeat not only dented their chances of repeating as Supporters’ Shield champions, but also intensified Messi’s personal race for the Golden Boot against LAFC’s Denis Bouanga.

If the Philadelphia Union defeats New York City FC this Saturday, Miami will be officially out of contention for the Supporters’ Shield. But the stakes remain high. Another loss could drop the Herons to third place in the Eastern Conference, giving FC Cincinnati a clear path to second. Miami already suffered a 3–0 road loss to Cincinnati earlier this season.