Sources: Messi, De Paul on hiatus for next 2 Miami games

Lionel Messi and Rodrigo De Paul will take a break before rejoining Inter Miami CF for the MLS season following their participation in the FIFA World Cup with Argentina, sources informed ESPN on Monday.

World Cup Participation and Impact

Both players were involved in Argentina’s 1-0 loss to Spain in the World Cup final, with Messi playing the full 120 minutes. The Argentine captain started all eight matches for his national team during the tournament.

FIFPRO, the global representative organization for professional footballers, has advocated for a 21-day rest period at the end of each season for health reasons. This proposal was reviewed by FIFA in meetings with FIFPRO in 2025, resulting in mutual agreement on enhancing player welfare.

Current Availability for Inter Miami

FIFA’s statement highlighted that there should be at least 72 hours of rest between matches, and players are recommended to have a minimum of 21 days off at season’s end. It remains uncertain if Messi and De Paul will miss the entire 21-day window, but they are confirmed to be out for Inter Miami’s upcoming matches against Chicago Fire FC and CF Montréal.

Additionally, the MLS has been notified that both players will not participate in the MLS All-Star game scheduled for July 29, as it coincides with this 21-day period. Both Messi and De Paul were selected to represent the team against the Liga MX All-Stars.

During the World Cup, Messi scored eight goals and provided four assists, finishing just behind Kylian Mbappé in the Golden Boot race. He played a crucial role in guiding Argentina to their second consecutive World Cup final appearance.

On social media, Messi expressed the depth of his emotions following the loss, stating, “The pain is immense and it will take time for this wound to heal.” He acknowledged the collective effort of the team and the support from their country, saying, “Once again, we managed to unite as a country and be together, sharing the immense pride of being Argentine.”

Furthermore, Messi achieved a significant milestone by reaching 125 career international goals this summer and became the first player to start in three World Cup finals.