There have been some concerns over Messi’s fitness, and his usage by coach Javier Mascherano has been intermittent in recent weeks. He missed Argentina’s thumping victory over Brazil last week with a hip complaint. Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni was present in L.A. to watch Wednesday’s proceedings.

Messi’s team, Inter Miami, told ESPN that it was the club’s decision not to allow Cheuko on the sidelines, instead deciding to rely on their own security team to handle fans.

The most important game of the 2025 season so far for Lionel Messi and Inter Miami is Wednesday night's Concacaf Champions Cup meeting with LAFC.