Inter Miami lineup vs. Orlando City: Predicted XI for MLS showdown as Lionel Messi and key names miss out

With Lionel Messi sidelined by a muscle injury, Inter Miami face a stern test as they travel to Exploria Stadium for a Florida derby clash against Orlando City SC. The Herons will be looking to bounce back, but with multiple absentees due to injuries and international call-ups, head coach Javier Mascherano is once again likely to reshuffle his lineup.

Between the posts, Rios Novo is set to continue in goal, stepping in for the injured Drake Callender. The young Argentine has handled the responsibility well in recent weeks and will be eager to impress in what promises to be a high-pressure encounter.

In defence, Marcelo Weigandt is expected to start at right-back, with Jordi Alba offering experience and attacking quality on the left.

At centre-back, Maximiliano Falcon and Gonzalo Lujan are the likely pairing, though Ryan Sailor, Sergii Kryvtsov, and Ian Fray are also available should the Argentine gaffer opt for more physical presence or tactical adjustment.

Sergio Busquets will again anchor the midfield, a vital presence in a side missing key pieces. He may be partnered by Federico Redondo or David Ruiz, depending on the latter’s match fitness. With several attacking midfielders unavailable, Busquets’ ability to dictate tempo and protect the backline becomes even more vital.

Rodrigo De Paul is expected to operate higher up the pitch, pulling the creative strings. He will likely be flanked by Tadeo Allende and Telasco Segovia, with Fafa Picault and Benjamin Cremaschi both away on international duty; that puts added creative responsibility on De Paul to drive the attack in Messi’s absence.

Up front, Luis Suarez remains the focal point. The Uruguayan has hit form in recent outings and will again be called upon to lead the line, particularly with no recognised backup striker and Messi unavailable. Suarez has delivered in big moments throughout his career and will need to do so again here.

On the bench, Mascherano could turn to young prospects such as Allen Obando and Yannick Bright for energy and depth, while Santiago Morales may also feature in a defensive support role.

Despite their depleted ranks, Inter Miami still boast a seasoned core; Suarez, Busquets, Alba, and De Paul will be key in navigating this derby challenge.

A win over Orlando would not just be a statement, it would also keep Miami firmly in the hunt in the Eastern Conference playoff race.

Inter Miami possible starting lineup: Rios Novo; Weigandt, Lujan, Falcon, Alba; Bright, Busquets; Allende, De Paul, Segovia; Suarez

> Click here to see how Orlando City could line up on Sunday