Why Messi is missing Inter Miami's Leagues Cup clash vs Monterrey

Lionel Messi will not feature for Inter Miami in their 2026 Leagues Cup Matchday 2 encounter against Monterrey. The club has not issued a formal statement, but the reason is understood to be personal — his father, Jorge Messi, passed away at the age of 68.

The news has rippled through the football world, with tributes pouring in from teammates and rivals alike. For Inter Miami, the absence of their captain leaves a significant void in a tournament where they are among the favourites.

Family first: the reason behind Messi's absence

Jorge Messi, who played a pivotal role in managing his son's career from a young age, died recently. The exact date and circumstances have not been confirmed by the family or the club. Inter Miami have not yet announced when Messi will return to the squad.

Messi's father was more than a parent; he was a constant presence at matches and a key figure in the player's professional decisions. His passing has understandably taken precedence over football commitments.

Rodrigo De Paul's emotional tribute

In a poignant moment during Inter Miami's recent match, midfielder Rodrigo De Paul scored a stunning goal and then revealed a No. 10 jersey underneath his shirt — a clear tribute to Messi. The gesture was widely shared on social media, with fans and pundits praising the emotional display.

However, the celebration came at a cost. De Paul was shown a yellow card for removing his shirt, a rule that referees enforce regardless of the sentiment behind it. The Argentine international later explained that the tribute was for both Messi and his late father, Jorge.

How Inter Miami are coping

Without Messi, Inter Miami's attack lacks its usual creativity and cutting edge. The team will rely on De Paul and other senior players to step up against Monterrey, a side known for their physical and disciplined approach.

Coach Javier Mascherano, another Argentine with deep ties to Messi, has not commented publicly on the squad selection. But the mood around the camp is one of solidarity and understanding.

What this means for the Leagues Cup

Inter Miami entered the 2026 Leagues Cup with high hopes, and Messi's availability was seen as key to their chances. His absence for the Monterrey match does not necessarily end their campaign, but it puts added pressure on the remaining fixtures.

Monterrey, for their part, will see this as an opportunity to capitalise on a weakened opponent. The match, which was broadcast live, drew significant attention from fans eager to see how Miami would respond without their talisman.

As the tournament progresses, the big question remains: when will Messi return? No timeline has been given, and all indications suggest that the player will take as much time as he needs to grieve.

For now, the football community stands with Messi, remembering the man who helped shape one of the greatest careers in the sport's history. The Leagues Cup will continue, but some moments transcend the game.