LEAGUES CUP 2024
Lionel Messi eyes Leagues Cup return date
The Inter Miami star has been absent since Copa América but could soon be back on the practice field.
Inter Miami progressed from the group stage of the 2024 Leagues Cup, ensuring that their title defence extends into the knockout rounds. The Herons finished second in a group with Pachuca and Tigres UANL, setting up a tie with Toronto FC in the Round of 32.
They managed to qualify from the group despite the absence of Lionel Messi. The Miami captain has not featured since suffering an ankle ligament injury the Copa América final, but could soon back in contention.
Argentinian publication TyC Sports reports that Messi is aiming to return to the practice field within the next few days. The swelling around his ankle is thought to have subsided and he’s now been able to begin the rehabilitation.
When will Lionel Messi play for Inter Miami?
The Herons’ next fixture will be the Leagues Cup tie against Toronto on Thursday evening. Messi will not be involved in that game but there is hope that he could return in time to play some part in this summer’s Leagues Cup, provided Miami progress to the latter stages.
The final of the 2024 Leagues Cup will be held on Sunday, August 25. Messi, however, will be targeting the post-season with Inter Miami. The Herons failed to qualify for the MLS Cup playoffs in 2023 and Messi, now 37, knows that his year represents his best chance to claim the biggest prize in US soccer.
Miami head coach Tata Martino has insisted throughout that he will not rush Messi back from injury: “The club’s medical report came out and the new information is that. Regarding when he could come back, he will be evaluated week by week and we will see what his recovery is like, we won’t be taking any type of risk.”