Why Lionel Messi Is Not Playing Tonight Against Columbus?

The wait goes on for Inter Miami fans as head coach Guillermo Hoyos gave an important update on the playing status of Argentine stars Lionel Messi and Rodrigo De Paul ahead of their upcoming MLS clash against Columbus Crew. The matchweek 18 contest is taking place on Saturday, 1st August 2026, at Nu Stadium, but all the chatter pre-game has been about their superstar winger, making fans wonder ‘Is Lionel Messi Playing Tonight?’.

Coach Hoyos provided official confirmation that Lionel Messi and De Paul will not be available for the MLS clash. The pair just returned to first-team training and will be slowly integrated back into the fold, with a return aimed at Leagues Cup.

The pair was part of the Argentina national football team that unfortunately ended up being the losing finalists against Spain national football team. While the wait could potentially end against Atlético de San Luis on August 5, fans continue to harbour hope of his early return. His absence will be a big miss for coach Hoyos and the team.

Is Lionel Messi Not Playing Against Columbus?

The Argentine winger has been a national team main stay since making his international debut in August 2005 during a friendly match against Hungary. Fans wondering is Lionel Messi playing today, will be thinking right as the former Barcelona man will be absent on August 1.

While Columbus Crew have struggled against Inter Miami in the past, the focus on Saturday will be to do everything in their power to record three points and apply pressure on Nashville SC. While Inter Miami has managed five wins in their last five games, Columbus have struggled to notch wins in that same stretch.