Grieving Messi available for Miami in Leagues Cup clash

Lionel Messi, who flew into Miami after attending his father's funeral, stands ready to potentially come off the bench in Inter Miami's Leagues Cup match against Leon on Wednesday. The 39-year-old Argentine soccer star's father, who was also his agent, passed away last week at the age of 68. Following his father's death, Messi penned an emotional message on social media expressing his struggles and doubts about continuing his career.

Despite this personal tragedy, Messi has pledged to be available for coach Guillermo Hoyos in Miami's final bid to advance to the Leagues Cup quarterfinals. Miami currently sits with three points and requires a win over Leon, coupled with other favorable outcomes, to progress. The team will field Argentine midfielder Rodrigo De Paul and Brazilian Casemiro, but will be absent key players Luis Suarez, who is suspended, and German Berterame, who is recuperating from a concussion.