WHAT HAPPENED?
Lionel Messi Set to Return for Inter Miami After Two-Month Injury
Lionel Messi is back in action after missing almost two months due to an ankle injury. Inter Miami’s coach, Tata Martino, confirmed on Friday that Messi is fit and ready to play.
The Argentine star last played for Inter Miami on June 1 before joining Argentina for the Copa America 2024. He suffered an ankle injury in the July 15 final, which ruled him out of the MLS All-Star game and the 2024 Leagues Cup.
WHAT MARTINO SAID
“He’s fine,” Martino said when asked about Messi’s fitness. “Yesterday he returned to training. He is contemplated for tomorrow’s game, and after training, we will define the strategy for him, but he is available. We are going to once again have the best player in the world within the team, so we are all happy about that situation.”
There was concern that Lionel Messi would be sidelined this weekend due to a minor illness he picked up earlier this week that saw him miss training on Wednesday, but the manager confirmed it’s a non-issue heading into the weekend.
“Yes [there was concern], because it came together a bit with everything, the recovery of the ankle and just that throat condition he had, which prevented him from training,” Martino said. “But he had been training quite well and we always thought that Philadelphia was the game to return to. Luckily, this lasted only one day. Yesterday he already trained normally, we are just simply taking into account what has happened to define the strategy for tomorrow.”
The Bigger Picture: Messi’s Incredible Impact on Inter Miami
In just 12 matches this season, Lionel Messi has been outstanding for Inter Miami, scoring 12 goals and providing 13 assists. His 25 goal contributions have had a major impact on the team, despite playing less than half the season.
With Messi on the field, Inter Miami holds an 8-3-1 record in regular season games. His return could be key as the Herons push for both the MLS Supporters’ Shield and the MLS Cup in 2024.
What’s Next for Messi?
Inter Miami faces the Union this Saturday at 7:30 PM ET, available on MLS Season Pass via Apple TV. Messi is expected to make his much-anticipated return as the Herons, who lead the Eastern Conference and the MLS Supporters’ Shield race, look to extend their lead.
