Miami boss defends resting Messi for Vancouver amid fan backlash - ESPN

Inter Miami CF manager Gerardo «Tata» Martino defended the decision to rest Lionel Messi, Luis Suárez and Sergio Busquets for the game against the Vancouver Whitecaps on Saturday at BC Place, explaining the coaching staff must prioritize the well-being of the players amid fan frustration.

«We trained yesterday. When we finished, I conferred with the coaching staff and talked with the players, and at that moment we decided that they would not form part of the team,» Martino told reporters on Friday.

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«We understand the people's frustration, especially in wanting to see these players, but it is our job as the coaching staff to make these decisions that are uncomfortable.

»We understand what these players provoke in the league and other markets, but we have to take these measures that are sometimes unpleasant for people. But they are beneficial for the players.

«We can't announce with 20 days' notice what our movements will be. We analyzed the situation on Thursday because we have three games in a week, but sometimes unfortunate things happen that don't allow for players to participate in a certain match.»

The Vancouver Whitecaps broke the news to fans in a statement on Thursday, warning not to expect Miami stars Messi, Suárez and Busquets to participate in the match at BC Place.

«While we haven't received an official update on the availability of Lionel Messi, Luis Suárez, and Sergio Busquets for this weekend, we understand they will not make this trip. Unfortunately, we have no control over who plays for our opponent, and it was important for us to communicate to our fans as soon as possible,» Whitecaps CEO Axel Schuster said.

The Whitecaps expect a club MLS-era