Inter Miami coach Cristian "Kily" González confirmed Lionel Messi will travel to Spain next week to receive the 2026 Princess of Asturias Award for Sports, before rejoining the club for the match against the New York Red Bulls two days later.
Messi is due to attend the ceremony in Oviedo on Oct. 22 ahead of Miami's MLS game against the Red Bulls in Harrison, New Jersey.
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But González said he had no concerns about Messi's travel schedule ahead of the game.
"Yes, he does have this event [in Oviedo], and I love that he will assume it in this way. The whole club agrees that he should be there because it is a terribly important award, not just for him but for his family," González told reporters on Friday.
"Then, of course, I will count on him for the game [against the New York Red Bulls]. Leo has the possibility, not an advantage, and I said it the other day after the match, I want him to be good.
"He needs this. He'll be there, then I will have him at the game so I'm not worried about that at all."
The Princess of Asturias Award recognizes individuals and institutions for notable achievements in fields like literature, social sciences, scientific and technical research, international cooperation and sports.
Messi became the first individual football player to be given the honor by the jury, which consists of several members -- including president of the foundation Teresa Perales -- when it was announced in June.
"The truth is that for me it is a great pride to be able to receive this recognition because of the importance it has and for the fact that it is recognized not only for what I do on the pitch but also off the pitch," Messi said when the award was announced.
"I am very happy, and very grateful. I wanted to let you know and send a big hug to everyone. Thank you and see you soon."
Inter Miami currently sits in second place on the Eastern Conference table and secured its place in the 2026 MLS playoffs on Wednesday.
Messi leads MLS' Golden Boot race with 23 goals, four goals ahead of nearest challenger Petar Musa of FC Dallas.
Ahead of the game at the Red Bulls, Miami will visit Atlanta United FC on Saturday.