Inter Miami head coach Gerardo "Tata" Martino has recently confirmed that Lionel Messi, the renowned Argentine forward, is set to rejoin the team for training sessions in the near future. This announcement brings hope and excitement to fans who have eagerly awaited Messi's return. Martino indicated that Messi is expected to be back on the pitch before the end of the Major League Soccer (MLS) regular season, providing a boost to Inter Miami's campaign as they approach the crucial final matches of the season.
Messi, who has been out of action since suffering an ankle ligament injury on July 14, has missed a considerable portion of the 2024 MLS season. This injury, which occurred during the Copa América final between Argentina and Colombia at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida, has also kept him away from Inter Miami's entire 2024 Leagues Cup campaign. Despite the extended absence, Martino expressed optimism about Messi's recovery and imminent return.
During an interview with ESPN, Martino shared insights into Messi's progress. Although he could not provide an exact date for Messi's return to training, Martino reassured fans that the comeback is not too far off. "I wouldn't be able to give an approximate number of days that he returns to training, but it is not a situation that is too far away," Martino said. He elaborated on the nature of Messi's recovery, emphasizing the need to address both physical and mental aspects. “There is a part of the injuries that have to do with the physical, and there is a part that has to do with the mental. We have to overcome them both ways, and I think he is going through that process,” he explained.
Martino noted that Messi has been making gradual improvements, stating, “He is feeling better and better. He has been working in the field for three or four days now. We cannot give a specific time frame because we do not know, and it would be speculative to do so. But it is close.” The coach's comments suggest that Messi's return is imminent and that he is on track to rejoin the squad in time for the final stretch of the season.
In Messi’s absence, Inter Miami has continued to perform strongly. The team currently leads the MLS Eastern Conference with 53 points from 25 games, positioning themselves well for a playoff berth. Their next match against FC Cincinnati at home on Saturday will be a pivotal encounter. Even if the team does not secure a win in this game, they still have various pathways to ensure a postseason spot, thanks to their solid performance throughout the season.
Since joining Inter Miami in 2023, Messi has made a remarkable impact on the field, scoring 12 goals and providing 13 assists in just 12 regular-season appearances. His presence has been a key factor in the team's success, and his return is eagerly anticipated by fans and teammates alike. Messi’s return is expected to significantly enhance the team’s offensive capabilities and provide a valuable boost as they approach the critical final matches.
The MLS regular season is set to conclude on October 19 with a match against the New England Revolution, and fans are hopeful that Messi will be back in action by then. His return will be a highly anticipated event, adding excitement and anticipation to the closing stages of the season as Inter Miami aims for a successful finish.
