The Vancouver Whitecaps say Argentine superstar Lionel Messi is not expected to be in Inter Miami CF鈥檚 lineup when the two clubs face off at BC Place on Saturday.

The Whitecaps say the club has not received an official update on the availability of Messi or his teammates Luis Suarez and Sergio Busquets, but the 鈥機aps understand the trio will not make the trip.

Whitecaps CEO Axel Schuster says the club always wants its best players going up against the opponent鈥檚 best players, but Vancouver has no control over who plays for the other side.

NEWS | Vancouver Whitecaps FC issue an official statement regarding the upcoming match against Inter Miami CF this Saturday, May 25 at BC Place. |

鈥� Vancouver Whitecaps FC (@WhitecapsFC)

Soccer fans in B.C. have been eagerly awaiting Messi鈥檚 first MLS appearance in Vancouver, and more than 50,000 people were expected at Saturday鈥檚 game.

The 36-year-old Messi quickly became the face of the league when he joined Miami in a blockbuster deal last summer, and he impressed once again this season, putting up 10 goals and nine assists in 10 games.

Schuster says the Whitecaps know there will be a lot of disappointed fans, but the club 鈥渞emains committed to making this a special experience for everyone.鈥�

The Canadian Press

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