MIAMI, Aug 9: Lionel Messi was absent from Inter Miami’s Leagues Cup meeting with Monterrey as he remained in Argentina with his family following the death of his father.
Messi’s absence was felt during the group-stage encounter, while Argentina teammate Rodrigo De Paul paid an emotional tribute to the Inter Miami captain after scoring.
De Paul celebrated by wearing Messi’s jersey, acknowledging the close relationship between the two players and their long association with Argentina’s national team.
Messi had been expected to feature for Inter Miami during the Leagues Cup campaign, but his family commitments kept him away from the squad.
The Argentine superstar’s absence also placed greater responsibility on Inter Miami’s other attacking players as the club continued its campaign in the regional competition.
De Paul’s gesture quickly became one of the defining moments of the match, highlighting the bond between the Argentina internationals beyond club football.
Messi’s return to action will depend on his circumstances following the family bereavement. Inter Miami will continue its Leagues Cup campaign while awaiting the captain’s availability.
The episode underlined the personal significance of football for Messi and his Argentina teammates, with De Paul’s celebration offering a public show of support during a difficult period.
