Lionel Messi, the iconic football star, has been making waves in Major League Soccer (MLS) with his team, Inter Miami CF. However, recent speculations have arisen regarding Messi’s performance and commitment amidst the upcoming Copa America tournament. The head coach of Inter Miami, Tata Martino, has addressed these concerns and denied claims that Messi is holding back to conserve energy for the international competition.

In a recent match against Atlanta United, Messi scored his 11th goal of the 2024 season, yet Inter Miami suffered a surprising 3-1 defeat on their home turf at Chase Stadium. Despite his goal-scoring prowess, Messi’s performance was not up to his usual exceptional standards, leading to questions about his focus and dedication.

With the Copa America set to kick off on June 20, some have speculated that Messi might be prioritizing his efforts for the tournament, potentially impacting his performance in MLS matches. However, Tata Martino dismissed these suggestions, emphasizing Messi’s professionalism and commitment to his current team.

Following the match, Martino addressed the media and refuted claims that Messi was holding back, stating, “No, I will not speculate if Messi is saving himself for Copa America. Lionel is a dedicated player who gives his best in every game, and I have full confidence in his abilities and commitment to Inter Miami CF.”

As the football world eagerly anticipates the Copa America and Messi’s participation with the Argentine national team, all eyes will be on how the superstar manages his dual responsibilities with club and country. Fans of Inter Miami and supporters of Messi alike will be hoping to see him continue to deliver stellar performances on both fronts, showcasing his unparalleled talent and passion for the beautiful game.