The Argentina international has been absent ever since suffering a hamstring injury against Nashville earlier in March – a problem which also ruled him out of international duty.

Tata Martino recently revealed that the South American is back out on the grass and is doing well in his recovery – although Lionel Scaloni has now dropped a bombshell which means Lionel Messi is “guaranteed” to miss more games for Inter Miami…

Lionel Messi “guaranteed” to miss several Inter Miami matches

Well, Scaloni confirmed that the Inter Miami No.10 is the only player who is “guaranteed” to make his Copa America squad for this summer’s tournament.

Speaking after Argentina’s 3-1 win against Costa Rica on Wednesday, the 45-year-old was quoted by Mais Futebol as saying: “There is only a guaranteed place for those who weren’t here, you know who (Messi). The rest will have to work.”

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So, with Argentina’s Copa America campaign set to begin with a clash against Canada on 21st June, the 36-year-old is definitely going to miss another chunk of Inter Miami’s season.

What games Lionel Messi is likely to miss due to the Copa America

As aforesaid, Argentina’s Copa America campaign starts on 21st June – although Messi will presumably jet off a week or two before that date to begin preparations under Scaloni.

Therefore, it could be assumed that the Ballon d’Or winner will miss the following fixtures – at least.

Philadelphia Union vs Inter Miami (16th June)
Inter Miami vs Columbus Crew (20th June)
Nashville vs Inter Miami (30th June)

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If Argentina reach the Copa America final – which takes place on 15th July – Messi would also be likely to miss the following Inter Miami games.

Charlotte vs Inter Miami (4th July)
Cincinnati vs Inter Miami (7th July)
Inter Miami vs Toronto (18th July)