Inside Inter Miami: Will Messi play season opener vs. LAFC? MLS season preview
Defending MLS champion Inter Miami kicks off the 2026 season Saturday night on the road against LAFC, and the biggest question on everyone’s mind is: Will Lionel Messi play or not?
In the latest episode of the Inside Inter Miami podcast, we share the news on Messi’s hamstring injury, which led to the postponement of Miami’s preseason game in Puerto Rico that had been scheduled for last Friday.
We are joined by Apple TV’s lead MLS analyst Taylor Twellman, who offers his views on the 2026 Inter Miami team, what fans can expect from the new-look roster, how the opening of Miami Freedom Park will impact the club, and whether Miami is the favorite to defend the league title.
We also break down the rest of the league, who the contenders are heading into opening weekend, and what’s new on Apple TV this MLS season.
Finally, switching gears to the World Cup, we explain why Argentina, England and the Netherlands, three of the most popular teams in the tournament, have chosen Kansas City as their team base camp.
Remember, you can watch this show on YouTube and on our site at miamiherald.com. The podcast is available on Spotify, Apple podcasts, and most other platforms where you listen to your pods. Thank you for watching and listening, and enjoy!