Inter Miami bowed out of MLS playoff contention after an unexpected defeat against Cincinnati FC on Saturday.
In the game in which Lionel Messi returned from his injury, the Argentine could not avoid a painful setback that ended a successful debut season in the United States on a personal level.
Tata Martino jokes about Messi going to Barcelona
Now, Inter Miami coach Tata Martino has had to face the media to answer many questions about the match and the possibility of Messi going on loan to Barcelona during the MLS off-season.
You can now watch Messi in MLS with Apple
Discussing the rumor, Martino responded with laughter and a joke.
“He’s going for a walk?” he replied at first, not believing everything that had been published.
“I don’t know anything at this stage, I’m surprised.
“If you tell me that he’s going to visit Barcelona, yes, it’s probable, but [for a loan], I really don’t know.”
It remains to be seen what will happen with Messi, but Martino is handling the issue with good humor for now.