Lionel Messi's participation in Saturday's highly anticipated match against D.C. United at Audi Field is now in doubt following an injury he sustained during Wednesday night's game. The Argentine superstar, who recently joined Inter Miami in the MLS, scored a goal and provided an assist in the team's victory over Nashville before being substituted in the 50th minute due to a right leg injury.

Miami's head coach, Gerardo "Tata" Martino, stated that Messi's removal from the match was a precautionary measure. However, he expressed uncertainty about the forward's availability for the upcoming game, saying, "I don't want to assume, but I imagine that for Saturday's game he is not going to be available."

If Messi is unable to play on Saturday, it will be a disappointment for fans eager to see the World Cup champion in action at Audi Field, his first match there since joining the MLS. Despite this potential setback, Miami still boasts a star-studded roster with former FC Barcelona players Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba, as well as Uruguayan striker Luis Suárez.

The match against Inter Miami has generated immense excitement among soccer fans in the D.C. region, with all tickets for Saturday's game already sold out. Those still hoping to attend will have to turn to the secondary market, where resale tickets start at $169. Field seats are commanding prices ranging from $1,000 to $4,200.

Fans attending the match are advised to familiarize themselves with Audi Field's fan policies in advance, as heightened security measures are expected. Additionally, due to the Rock 'n' Roll Running Series, spectators are encouraged to use public transportation and arrive early to avoid potential traffic congestion.

It is worth noting that D.C. United's six supporter groups have announced their intention to continue their protest against the team's preseason trip to Saudi Arabia. As part of this protest, the largest supporters group, The Screaming Eagles, has announced the unveiling of a banner in honor of Washington Post journalist Jamal Khashoggi, who tragically lost his life inside the Saudi consulate in 2018. Consequently, there will be no organized singing or chanting during the match.

While Saturday's match may be uncertain for Messi, soccer enthusiasts in the D.C. area may still have another opportunity to see him play. The Argentina men's national team is scheduled to have an exhibition game against Guatemala on June 14 at Commanders Field in Landover, Maryland, ahead of the Copa América tournament. The roster for that game will be announced at a later date.

A final decision on Messi's availability for Saturday's game will be announced by Friday afternoon when MLS teams submit their injury reports. Fans and players alike will be eagerly awaiting news about whether the Argentine superstar will be able to grace the pitch at Audi Field this weekend.