Inter Miami has decided to give Lionel Messi a short break so he can attend the Princess of Asturias Sports Award ceremony in Oviedo. The Argentine striker, who has been a key player in the club's MLS campaign, will remain out of training in Florida as he prepares to collect the award he was awarded last month.
According to statements by Inter's Argentine coach, Kily González, Messi has "permission" to travel to Spain and the club fully agrees with his absence. González emphasized that the award is “terribly important” not only for the player but also for his family, and that the club values the opportunity for the Argentine to assume that commitment. "He has this commitment and I love that he assumes it in this way. The club totally agrees with him going, because it is a terribly important award, not only for him but for his family," explained the coach.
The former Barça player will remain in the squad for the next match against Atlanta United, which will be played on Saturday morning. After that meeting, Messi will head to Spain for the award ceremony. Despite the temporary absence, González assured that the forward will be available again for Inter Miami's next game, on October 24, against the New York Red Bulls. “Then I'll count on him, of course,” added the coach, underlining the importance of having the striker to continue fighting for the league title.
With Messi absent from training, Inter Miami is preparing to maintain its position in the MLS table, while the club focuses on the management of its squad and the continuity of its campaign. The game against Atlanta United will be an opportunity for the team to demonstrate its ability to compete without the constant presence of its star, and Messi's return before the meeting with the New York Red Bulls will be crucial to solidifying the club's offense.
In summary, Inter Miami has granted Lionel Messi official permission to attend the Princess of Asturias Award presentation in Oviedo, with the expectation that the player will return to the competition before the next match against the New York Red Bulls. The club maintains its commitment to sporting excellence and valuing the personal achievements of its players.