Tata Martino explains how Inter Miami can 'survive' without Lionel Messi as Copa America edges closer

Inter Miami boss Tata Martino has explained how the Herons can survive without Lionel Messi during the Copa America. Messi is set to miss five matches as the Argentina captain will join his national team for the Copa America 2024.

La Albiceleste will look to defend their status as the South American champions on US soil. Messi could miss the games against Philadelphia Union, Columbus Crew, Charlotte FC, and FC Cincinnati if Lionel Scaloni's team reaches the Copa America final.

Martino needs to prepare his team to compete in the absence of their talisman. He believes the rest of the players have shown signs that they can do without Messi for a few games. Martino said (via GOAL):

"If these players find themselves in form, with confidence, secure, and understand the challenges of the five games after St. Louis, it's clear that we'll be able to survive Copa America."

Lionel Messi has started the season strong for Inter Miami. The 36-year-old has scored 12 goals and has provided 11 assists in 13 appearances.

With Messi on the pitch, the Herons have won nine games, lost one, and drawn three. In his absence, Tata Martino's team have won only one game, drawn one and lost three matches.

David Beckham speaks about bringing Lionel Messi to Inter Miami

Inter Miami co-owner David Beckham shocked the world when he managed to complete a move for Lionel Messi. Messi joined the MLS minnows in 2023 after his contract with Paris Saint-Germain expired.

Beckham has now claimed that Messi's impact lies beyond the magical performances he puts on the pitch. The former England captain said on Good Morning America (via Diario AS):

"I always knew that bringing someone like Leo to Miami would be a huge impact. Obviously, with what he's done on the field, and what he continues to do off the field as well. It's not just about obviously winning trophies, which he's still hungry to do, but he wants the academy kids to get better. He wants to meet every young kid when he travels around America, that's the type of person he is."

Lionel Messi helped Inter Miami win the Leagues Cup this season. His performances on the pitch have helped create a surge in interest in MLS. With the Copa America 2024 and the 2026 FIFA World Cup set to take place in the U.S, Messi's impact is crucial in growing the sport in the country.