Argentina legend Lionel Messi watched on from the sidelines as Inter Miami won its second consecutive MLS game on Sunday, despite having gone down to 10 men in the first half

With Inter Miami struggling to a 1-0 victory over Charlotte, Javier Mascherano has explained Lionel Messi's absence for the third consecutive game.

Inter Miami head coach Javier Mascherano said he chose to rest Lionel Messi against the Houston Dynamo on Sunday in an effort to prevent an injury to the Argentina star after he featured in three matches in seven days.

Lionel Messi did not play against Charlotte because Inter Miami had to play down a man after Oscar Ustari's early red card.

Inter Miami coach Javier Mascherano insisted Lionel Messi was not injured after the Argentine superstar was held out of his second straight game.

Inter Miami CF head coach Javier Mascherano said he is optimistic Lionel Messi could make the roster for the match against Charlotte FC on Sunday night at Chase Stadium, though added he was unwilling to take unnecessary risks with the star player.

Inter Miami have enjoyed a remarkable run in 2025, remaining undefeated so far. However, Lionel Messi has missed the team's last two matches, raising concerns about his availability for the upcoming clash with Charlotte FC.

Inter Miami's sporting project continues to take shape. Along with preserving their unbeaten record in 2025, Javier Mascherano has brought in another Argentine young player to provide additional support for Lionel Messi.