Is Lionel Messi playing today, Aug. 22? Projected lineups for Inter Miami vs Toronto FC in 2026 MLS season

[TIME]Messi Cleared to Start as Inter Miami Host Toronto FC Looking to Halt Slide[/TIME]

Lionel Messi is expected to start for Inter Miami on Saturday when the Herons host Toronto FC at DRV PNK Stadium, with kickoff set for 7:30 p.m. ET. The Argentine captain has been cleared to play following his discipline hearing related to the Quinn Sullivan incident, and he’ll aim to help Miami end a difficult stretch that has seen them drop three of their last four matches across all competitions.

Miami currently sit second in the Eastern Conference with 39 points, while Toronto remain in 11th place with 21 points. Head coach Guillermo Hossack will be without several key players due to injury, including Mateo Silvetti, Micael, German Berterame, and Tadeo Allende, while Yannick Bright serves a suspension after receiving a red card in the Philadelphia Union match.

Toronto face their own injury and suspension issues, with Jonathan Osorio, Deandre Kerr, Lazar Stefanovic, Nelson Palacio, Nicksoen Gomis, Markus Cimermancic, Matheus Pereira, and defender Walker Zimmerman all unavailable for selection.

With Messi projected to lead the attack alongside Luis Suarez, who has contributed 10 goals this season, Inter Miami enter as heavy favorites to break their recent slump. However, Toronto have demonstrated this season that they can challenge stronger opponents and create difficulties for visiting teams.

Inter Miami’s Projected Starting Lineup

With Bright suspended, Hossack is expected to reconfigure his midfield while relying on Messi and Suarez as the primary offensive threats.

Inter Miami’s projected starting XI: Ríos Novo; Reguilón, Luján, Fray, Mura; Casemiro, Segovia, De Paul; Messi, Suárez.

Toronto FC’s Projected Starting Lineup

Missing Zimmerman in defense, Toronto will depend on their remaining backline options to withstand Miami’s offensive pressure, while Sallói should carry much of the attacking burden.

Toronto FC’s projected starting XI: Gavran; Gilman, Kuscevic, Laryea; Dorsch, Cimermancic; Sallói, Mihailovic, Corbeanu; Sargent.

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