Argentina’s World Cup-winning captain had a fairy tale start to life on his Inter Miami debut after coming off the bench last week.
Lionel Messi is set to wear the captain’s armband for Inter Miami CF’s game against Atlanta United, according to manager Gerardo “Tata” Martino.
Messi debuted for Miami last Friday, alongside former Barcelona teammate Sergio Busquets. He came off the bench to score a vital free-kick against Cruz Azul. The goal sealed Inter a 2-1 victory in their Leagues Cup opener. It put the club at the top of the South 3 group, three points clear of Atlanta United, who are yet to play, and Cruz Azul.
Now Martino has hinted that Messi and Busquets may start for Tuesday’s second game against Atlanta at the DRV PNK Stadium.
“It is very likely that both Messi and Busi [Busquets] will play longer, even from the beginning,” the Inter Miami coach said at a press conference on Monday.
“Everything will depend on how they feel. It’s just their second game.”
When asked whether Messi will lead the team, Martino replied: “Yes, he was our captain last game as well.”
Jordi Alba, another former Barcelona player, may also play some part in the match. The veteran full-back joined Miami last week on a free transfer.
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