Late last week rumors that Lionel Messi would not play on artificial turf started gaining traction, but earlier today Atlanta United Analyst, Jason Longshore, joined The Morning Shift and explained why everything should be taken with a grain of salt until Messi speaks for himself.
“Well it’s a rumor at this stage because he hasn’t come out and said anything like that and I'm really curious to see where this goes.” Jason continues by saying “I’d be surprised if he didn’t play on turf. He’s not somebody that’s had injuries.”
Jason also said “Messi has never had any major injuries like that so until he says it I’m going to take everything with a grain of salt there.” Jason finished by saying “He hasn’t said anything directly and until he does, I’d say hold on a little bit.” Jason also pointed out that Messi played on turf in his final trial game when he was seeking a contract from Barcelona.
No reliable source or Lionel Messi himself has said Messi isn’t playing on turf, so right now there’s absolutely no reason to believe Messi won’t play on the turf fields that some MLS teams have, including Atlanta United’s turf surface in Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
As of right now fans should fully expect to see Lionel Messi play in Mercedes-Benz Stadium when Inter Miam comes to Atlanta September 16th.