Lionel Messi is expected to play today, Saturday, October 24, 2026, when Inter Miami CF faces the New York Red Bulls in MLS Matchday 31. The Argentine superstar is reportedly available and expected to feature in Inter Miami’s starting lineup, although official confirmation will come closer to kickoff.
Inter Miami travels to Harrison, New Jersey, for an important MLS regular-season matchup, with kickoff scheduled for 5:30 p.m. ET at Sports Illustrated Stadium.
Is Lionel Messi Playing Today for Inter Miami?
Yes, Lionel Messi is expected to be available for Inter Miami’s matchup against the New York Red Bulls on October 24, 2026.
The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner reportedly traveled with the team to New Jersey following a trip to Spain, suggesting he remains in contention to start.
Messi has not been listed among Inter Miami’s unavailable players for the match, making his participation likely barring a late change.
However, Inter Miami has not officially confirmed whether Messi will start or come off the bench.
Is Lionel Messi Injured or Suspended?
Messi is not listed on Inter Miami’s official injury or suspension report ahead of the New York Red Bulls match.
Inter Miami’s reported unavailable players include:
- Tadeo Allende
- Fricio Caicedo
- Maximiliano Falcón
- Mateo Silvetti
With Messi absent from the injury report, there is currently no reported injury or suspension preventing him from participating.
Inter Miami vs. New York Red Bulls: Date, Time and Location
Here are the match details for today’s MLS encounter:
- Match: New York Red Bulls vs. Inter Miami CF
- Date: Saturday, October 24, 2026
- Kickoff Time: 5:30 p.m. ET
- Competition: 2026 Major League Soccer, Matchday 31
- Stadium: Sports Illustrated Stadium
- Location: Harrison, New Jersey
- Streaming: Apple TV
Will Lionel Messi Start Against New York Red Bulls?
Messi is expected to be part of Inter Miami’s attacking lineup against New York Red Bulls.
Reports suggest he could feature alongside Luis Suárez and Germán Berterame as Inter Miami looks to create scoring opportunities against its Eastern Conference opponent.
However, the official starting XI has not been released, meaning Messi’s starting role remains unconfirmed.
Supporters should check Inter Miami’s official lineup announcement before kickoff for confirmation.
Where to Watch Inter Miami vs. New York Red Bulls Today
Fans can watch Inter Miami take on the New York Red Bulls through Apple TV, which carries MLS matches.
The match is scheduled to begin at 5:30 p.m. Eastern Time on Saturday, October 24, 2026.
Viewers should check Apple TV for the match listing and applicable viewing requirements.
When Is Inter Miami’s Next Match After New York Red Bulls?
Following Saturday’s meeting with New York Red Bulls, Inter Miami is scheduled to face FC Cincinnati on Wednesday, October 28, 2026.
That matchup is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET.
Messi’s availability for the Cincinnati match will depend on the team’s selection decisions and any developments following Saturday’s contest.
Final Verdict: Is Messi Playing Today?
Lionel Messi is expected to play for Inter Miami against the New York Red Bulls on Saturday, October 24, 2026.
The Argentine forward is not listed on the team’s injury report and is reportedly in contention to start the MLS Matchday 31 encounter.
While his participation looks likely, fans will need to wait for Inter Miami’s official starting lineup to confirm whether Messi will be on the field from the opening whistle.
Kickoff is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. ET at Sports Illustrated Stadium in Harrison, New Jersey.