Messi Benched as Inter Miami Faces Atlanta United Amid Busy Schedule

Coach Tata Martino manages Messi's minutes with three games in a week, starting him on the bench against Atlanta United.

Lionel Messi will not start in Inter Miami's game against Atlanta United, with coach Tata Martino aiming to manage his minutes due to a busy schedule and recent injury recovery.
Key players like Sergio Busquets, Tomas Aviles, and David Martinez are unavailable for Miami due to suspensions and injuries, further complicating their lineup.
Inter Miami currently leads the MLS Supporters' Shield race with 62 points and aims to secure home-field advantage throughout the playoffs.
Atlanta United, fighting for a playoff spot, hopes to replicate their earlier season victory over Miami, which remains Miami's only significant defeat this year.
David Ruiz, a 20-year-old midfielder from Little Havana, took advantage of his rare start by scoring his first goal of the season, giving Miami a 1-0 lead at halftime.