Messi could be a SUB for Inter Miami's game at New York, hints coach Martino

Lionel Messi could be rested for Inter Miami's trip to New York Red Bulls this weekend, despite tickets for his Major League Soccer debut costing more than $20,000.

After a remarkable first month on US soil, the Argentina star was slated to make his MLS bow in Saturday night's match at Red Bull Arena.

That sparked a frenzy on ticket resale websites, with fans flogging their seat at the game for up to $23,528 - including taxes.

But Inter Miami boss Tata Martino has said his superstar is reaching a 'physical limit', hinting that Messi might need some rest and may not start on Saturday.

'Leo and many other players are reaching an important physical limit and from today we will start to evaluate this – how do I face at least the next three games,' Martino said after Wednesday's win over Cincinnati.

That victory on penalties saw Messi play another 120 minutes. Since his debut on July 21, the 36-year-old has played eight matches in 33 days - scoring 10 goals but also amassing nearly 750 minutes of football.

'You also have to take into account the large number of games that we played in 45, 50 days,' Martino added.

Messi came on as a second-half substitute for his Leagues Cup debut against Cruz Azul on July 21.

But he has started every Inter Miami match since, missing only 12 minutes of action across seven matches.

He was originally supposed to make his MLS debut against Charlotte FC on August 20. But the match was postponed due to both teams' Leagues Cup commitments.

That meant Saturday's trip to New York took centre stage, sparking a price hike on ticket resale websites.

On Monday - nearly a week out from gameday - the lowest-priced ticket (including all fees) on website Gametime cost a whopping $610.

At the other end of the scale, the