Inter Miami CF returns to MLS action tonight when it hosts Atlanta United at Nu Stadium.
The Herons enter the matchup after an emphatic 7-1 victory over CF Montréal last weekend, a result that ended a five-game winless run across all competitions. Lionel Messi was at the center of the performance, scoring four goals and providing an assist.
Inter Miami currently sits second in the Eastern Conference with 42 points, while Atlanta United sits 13th in the Eastern Conference after seeing its three-match winning streak snapped last weekend. The match is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET on Saturday.
Is Lionel Messi Playing Against Atlanta United?
Yes. Lionel Messi will start tonight against Atlanta United.
Messi enters the match in spectacular form after his four-goal, one-assist performance against Montréal. The 39-year-old leads MLS with 18 goals and 10 assists, giving him a league-best 28 goal contributions this season.
The match also comes shortly after Messi announced his retirement from international soccer. After leading Argentina to the 2026 World Cup final, Messi has now closed the international chapter of his career and will focus exclusively on club football with Inter Miami.
The match also comes during a period of change for Inter Miami. The club recently appointed Cristian “Kily” González as its new head coach, although his official presence on the sideline depends on the completion of his work authorization. Guillermo Hoyos has been serving as interim coach.
Atlanta United, meanwhile, will look to cause an upset with former Inter Miami coach Gerardo “Tata” Martino in charge.
