Messi to captain Inter Miami, could start vs Atlanta United – Martino

Inter Miami CF head coach Gerardo Martino has confirmed Lionel Messi will lead the club and he could start against Atlanta United on Tuesday night in the Leagues Cup. Messi made his debut for the struggling Major League Soccer club against Cruz Azul last week.

The Argentine played for almost 40 minutes and enthralled the American football fans when he scored from a free kick in the stoppage time to give a 2-1 win to his new team.

Messi was able to hit the ground running and Martino has revealed that the Argentine’s game time will depend on he feels. Furthermore, Messi’s former Barcelona teammate Sergio Busquets had also impressed on his debut for Inter Miami CF. Martino said both of these players will play for a longer period.

“Yes, he was our captain last game as well,” Martino said when asked at Monday’s news conference.

“It is very likely that both Messi and Busi [Sergio Busquets] will play longer, even from the beginning. Everything will depend on how they feel. It’s just their second game.”

Messi was able to turn up for Inter Miami CF after a vacation and he once again showed his class in that free-kick.

Meanwhile, Martino is looking forward to facing his former club, Atlanta United.

“Atlanta is a place that is very important in my heart and a place I enjoyed,” Martino said. “Not just the club, but the two years in the city. It is a game that has a special factor.”

The Argentine also revealed Messi is helping his teammates in the training sessions and he is trying to get the best out of them.

“What was seen of Messi in the game trying to order his teammates, is what he has been doing in the training sessions,” Martino said. “He helps and talks about football with his teammates.”

Inter Miami CF will face Atlanta United on Tuesday night at DRV PNK Stadium.