Lionel Messi’s Return to Inter Miami Imminent?
In a boost to Inter Miami fans, head coach Tata Martino revealed on Friday that the Argentine superstar is likely to return to the team’s lineup before the end of the 2024 MLS season.
Messi has been sidelined since sustaining an ankle ligament injury during the Copa America final on July 14, but Martino confirmed that the former Barcelona ace has been making rapid progress in his rehabilitation.
“He’s doing individual work, which is a positive step. He’s not training with the group yet, but he’s already on the field and working with the physical trainers,” Martino explained. “He’s developing well, it was foreseeable that he wouldn’t be with Argentina because he’s not yet in a position to play, but we continue to see him develop. There’s no estimate, because you’re already starting to see how you feel as you add training on the field.”
While an exact timeline for Messi’s return was not provided, Martino was eager to reassure fans that it’s not far away. “The work is planned by the medical part with the physical trainers. But yes, he returns before the end of the regular season,” he said.
Inter Miami has managed to stay afloat despite Messi’s absence, boasting an 8-3-0 record in all competitions, although they were eliminated from the Leagues Cup by the Columbus Crew. The team currently sits atop the MLS table, with 53 points and a 16-4-5 record, and can seal a playoff spot with a win against FC Cincinnati on Saturday.
Messi last played for Inter Miami on June 1 before departing for international duty, and his return will undoubtedly be a huge boost to the team’s chances of competing for the MLS Cup.
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[Embedded image: Lionel Messi checks his ankle after injuring it in the Copa America final]
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