Tata Martino provides latest Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez update ahead of Inter Miami vs Atlanta United clash 

Gerardo Martino has confirmed Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez will be available for Inter Miami to face Atlanta United on Wednesday (May 29). The iconic duo were rested in the Herons' 2-1 win against Vancouver Whitecaps on Sunday (May 27).

Their manager gave an update on the former Barcelona superstars as the MLS Eastern Conference leaders host Atlanta (via TheEuropeanLad on X):

"Lionel Messi & Luis Suarez will play vs Atlanta United tomorrow.”

Lionel Messi, 36, has unsurprisingly been in red-hot form, posting 12 goals and 11 assists in 13 games across competitions. The 2022 FIFA World Cup winner has dealt with fitness issues this season but is ready to face 12th-placed Atlanta.

Luis Suarez, 37, has started his Inter Miami career in scintillating fashion with 13 goals and seven assists in 18 games across competitions. The Uruguayan striker arrived in January after leaving Brazilian outfit Gremio.

Martino's side are heavy favorites in their home clash with Atlanta, unbeaten in their last 10 MLS games. They secured a 2-1 win against Vancouver last time out, courtesy of goals from Robert Taylor and Leonardo Campana.

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Bradley Wright-Phillips points out how Lionel Messi's Inter Miami teammates are coming to the fore

Lionel Messi-less Inter Miami beat Vancouver to maintain their unbeaten record.

Inter Miami's win against Vancouver came without Lionel Messi which has been somewhat of a rarity since he arrived at DRV PNK. The Herons have struggled without their captain with their only two MLS defeats this season with him absent.

Bradley Wright-Phillips suggested it was vital for Martino's side not to become over-reliant on the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner. The former MLS star said (via intermiami.news):

"It’s the biggest question we had for Inter Miami, what do they do when the stars aren’t there. And too often we saw, especially when Messi wasn’t there, they couldn’t get a win. But now we’re seeing the supporting cast come on and make a difference, it’s what they need going down the stretch."

Messi made an immediate impact when he joined David Beckham's co-owned MLS franchise last summer. He captained the Herons to Leagues Cup glory, their first major trophy.

Vice City had been banking on the Argentine icon to produce the goods constantly but other players have stepped up as of late. Martino's men will likely have to do without Messi and Suarez next month as they'll be away at Copa America.