Messi & De Paul Rest: Inter Miami Stars Sit Out Key Games

Lionel Messi and Rodrigo De Paul are set to miss Inter Miami's next two scheduled matches. The decision comes after both players featured in all eight games for Argentina during the World Cup, with Messi playing every minute of their final match.

These absences include a midweek game against the Chicago Fire and a weekend fixture against CF Montreal. While not explicitly stated, these absences align with FIFPRO's recommendation for a 21-day rest period at the conclusion of a season to prioritize player health.

Further impacting their availability, Messi and De Paul will also not participate in the MLS All-Star Game on July 29. Inter Miami has officially informed the league of Messi's decision to skip the event, an action for which he was previously suspended in 2025 for not seeking league approval.

Inter Miami currently holds second place in the MLS Eastern Conference standings, trailing first-place Nashville SC by five points. The team's schedule includes further competition in the Leagues Cup from August 5-12.