Lionel Messi Considering Opting Out of Freezing Match
Lionel Messi, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, is reportedly weighing the option to sit out Inter Miami’s upcoming clash with Sporting Kansas City due to the frigid conditions expected during the match. The CONCACAF Champions Cup opener on Tuesday night is forecast to experience temperatures plummeting as low as -15C (5 degrees Fahrenheit), making it an extremely challenging environment for players and spectators alike. According to journalist Franco Panizo, Messi is not keen on playing in such conditions, though there is still a possibility he might be included in the lineup. The match’s organizers are exploring options to either postpone the game or relocate it to a warmer venue.
Unprecedented Cold Conditions Impacting the Match
The weather forecast for the match night indicates that temperatures could dip as low as -24C (-12 degrees Fahrenheit), with strong chill winds making the conditions even more severe. This would shatter the previous record for the coldest MLS match in history, which was -7C (18 degrees Fahrenheit) recorded in a 2019 clash between the Colorado Rapids and Portland Timbers. The extreme cold not only poses a risk to player safety and performance but also to the health and well-being of fans attending the game. Inter Miami is taking the situation seriously and is actively considering alternatives to ensure the safety of everyone involved.
Luis Suarez’s Insight into Messi’s Discomfort in Cold Conditions
In a 2021 interview, Messi’s teammate Luis Suarez offered insights into the Argentine’s aversion to playing in cold weather. Suarez shared, "We talk every day, we always try to avoid expectations because we are players and we know how we have to act in those moments. We talk about the games, about the family. He told me that he suffers a lot playing in the cold and snow. You have to get used to the cold there for sure." This revelation highlights Messi’s preference for warmer conditions, which adds to the合理性 of his consideration to sit out the match. The cold weather could significantly impact his performance and comfort on the field.
Messi’s Stellar Season and Post-Season Break
Lionel Messi had an outstanding season with Inter Miami in 2022, scoring 21 goals and providing 11 assists in just 22 MLS appearances. His performance was a testament to his exceptional skill and continued dominance in the sport. Now, Messi is enjoying his post-season break ahead of the new campaign, which is set to kick off at the end of the month. Inter Miami’s next match is against New York City FC on February 22nd, following the first leg of their CONCACAF Champions Cup. During his break, Messi was seen attending Super Bowl LIX alongside his Inter Miami teammates Luis Suarez, Jordi Alba, and Sergio Busquets. The Argentine legend even took a photo with Jackson Mahomes, while his older brother Patrick Mahomes played in the championship game for the Kansas City Chiefs.
Thiago Messi’s Promising Future
While Lionel Messi enjoys his break, his eldest son, Thiago, has been making waves in the youth football scene. The 12-year-old, son of Messi and his wife Antonela Roccuzzo, is part of the Inter Miami academy and has shown great promise. In a recent match against Atlanta United, Thiago scored an impressive 11 goals, donning the No. 10 shirt—a number synonymous with his legendary father. Thiago has previously represented Barcelona at the youth level and reportedly has priority contract options at the Argentinian club Newell’s Old Boys. His performance and dedication suggest that he has a bright future in the sport, following in his father’s illustrious footsteps.
Conclusion: Inter Miami’s Dilemma and Future Prospects
Inter Miami finds itself in a challenging position as it weighs the options for the upcoming CONCACAF Champions Cup match. The extreme cold conditions present a significant risk, and the club is considering all possible solutions to ensure the safety and well-being of its players and fans. Lionel Messi’s potential absence, due to his discomfort in cold weather, adds an extra layer of complexity. However, the team’s success in the previous season, driven by Messi’s exceptional performance, sets a high bar for the upcoming matches. Meanwhile, the emergence of Thiago Messi in the youth ranks offers a glimpse into the next generation of football talent, adding to the excitement and anticipation for Inter Miami’s future.
