Will Messi Be Able to Play for Inter Miami This Weekend?

Will Lionel Messi Be Available Against New England Revolution?

Lionel Messi's availability for Inter Miami's upcoming match came into question after the Argentine forward received another yellow card during the game against FC Cincinnati.

With that booking, the Herons' captain reached five yellow cards in the 2026 Major League Soccer (MLS) season, a total that would normally put a player at risk of an automatic suspension.

However, Messi will be eligible to face New England Revolution next Sunday in Foxborough thanks to a special provision in the league's disciplinary regulations.

According to information published by Diario AS, the Argentine meets the necessary conditions to avoid a suspension for accumulated yellow cards.

Why Was Messi Booked Against Cincinnati?

Messi's fifth yellow card came during the first half of the match between Inter Miami and FC Cincinnati.

In the 44th minute, the Argentine star protested to referee Armando Villarreal while an opposing player remained on the ground.

The referee considered the protest worthy of a booking and showed a yellow card to the World Cup winner with Argentina.

Earlier in the season, Messi had received yellow cards in matches against Colorado Rapids, Orlando City, Nashville SC, and Atlanta United.

Since joining Inter Miami, the forward has accumulated 14 yellow cards without receiving a red card, according to the records cited by the publication.

What MLS Rule Allows Lionel Messi to Avoid Suspension?

The key lies in an MLS regulation that allows players to reduce their accumulated yellow-card count after completing five consecutive matches without receiving another booking.

This means a yellow card can stop counting toward a suspension, even though it remains part of the player's disciplinary record.

In Messi's case, his bookings came in Matchdays 8, 11, 20, 31, and 33, meaning the intervals between some of those cautions allow him to benefit from this rule.

As a result, the Argentine does not reach the accumulated yellow-card threshold that would trigger an automatic suspension.

Inter Miami Can Count on Messi During the Final Stretch of the MLS Season

Messi's availability is important news for Inter Miami, which is approaching the final stages of the regular season.

The Florida-based club will visit New England Revolution in Foxborough with the opportunity to field its biggest star, provided there are no other physical or sporting issues affecting his availability.

Key Takeaways

• Lionel Messi received his fifth yellow card of the 2026 season.
• The booking came against FC Cincinnati in the 44th minute.
• Messi will not be suspended for yellow-card accumulation thanks to MLS regulations.
• The league allows players to reduce their disciplinary count after five consecutive matches without a booking.
• Inter Miami can count on the Argentine against New England Revolution, subject to his fitness.

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