Lionel Messi and Rodrigo de Paul will take time off before rejoining Inter Miami CF for the MLS season following their World Cup participation with Argentina, sources told ESPN.

Both players featured in the World Cup final loss to Spain. FIFPRO has advocated for a 21-day rest period at the end of each season for player health. FIFA and FIFPRO have reached a consensus on this, stating there must be at least 72 hours between matches and a minimum 21-day rest period/holiday.

While it's unclear if they will take the full 21 days, Messi and De Paul are confirmed to miss Inter Miami's matches against Chicago Fire FC on July 22 and CF Montreal on July 25. They will also be unavailable for the MLS All-Star game on July 29, which falls within the recommended break. Messi concluded the World Cup with eight goals and four assists, leading Argentina to their second consecutive final appearance.