Inter Miami's Strategy for Success: Resting Messi for Key Competitions

miami, usa - Inter Miami's approach of strategically resting Lionel Messi during the MLS season has proven successful, allowing him to shine in crucial games like the upcoming Club World Cup.

Inter Miami's Strategy for Club World Cup Success

Inter Miami's management of Lionel Messi's playing time has been a crucial factor in the team's success. Despite resting Messi in many MLS regular-season games, he led the team to victory in important competitions like the Supporters' Shield and the MLS points record.

Strategic Resting for Optimal Performance

Throughout the 2024 season, Messi played in only 55% of available games but still delivered outstanding results with 20 goals and 16 assists in just 19 games. The team's approach of selectively resting Messi to preserve his energy for key matches has paid off, as seen in their achievements.

MLS Season Dynamics

Unlike other leagues, MLS emphasizes the importance of performing well in knockout competitions rather than the regular season. With the league's playoff system, teams can afford to lose games and still secure a spot in the postseason. This strategy allows for effective player management and optimization for crucial matches.

Continued Success in 2025

In the current season, Messi has played 73% of MLS minutes and 86% of Concacaf Champions Cup minutes, demonstrating the team's focus on balancing his workload for peak performance. The strategic resting of Messi showcases the club's commitment to maximizing his impact in key competitions.

Key to Messi's Longevity

At 37, Messi's ability to adapt his playing style and training routine underscores the importance of rest in sustaining high performance levels. By strategically resting Messi and prioritizing key games, Inter Miami aims to leverage his skills effectively in the upcoming Club World Cup and beyond.