MLS
Messi returns to training with Inter Miami: will he play against Toronto FC in MLS?
Lionel Messi is preparing to return to the pitch Inter Miami and posted a cryptic message on social media ahead of the match against Toronto FC.
After the arrival of Lionel Messi to Inter Miami, the Fort Lauderdale team have seen a noticeable upturn in their fortunes and results, so much so that they won the first title in their history - Leagues Cup - shortly after the Argentine arrived.
The return of the world champion to Miami came this Monday, when the Major League Soccer franchise prepared at Florida Blue Training Center. The Argentine completed the session as normal along with the rest of the group, so it is likely that he will return to the starting lineup at DRV PNK Stadium against the Toronto FC.
Unfortunately for Las Garzas, the Playoffs are still way off in the distance and the defeat without the number 10 against Atlanta United was extremely painful, meaning the game against the Canadian outfit (Wednesday, September 20, 2023 at 7.30 p.m. ET/4.30 p.m. PT.) becomes a must-win event.
Last weekend’s clash against Atlanta United at Mercedes-Benz Stadium marked Las Garzas’ second game without Messi, but the first due to a mutual agreement between Gerardo ‘Tata’ Martino and the FC Barcelona legend. The other game in which he was absent was against Sporting KC, but there his absence was due to duty with the Argentina National Team.
Did Messi hint at his participation against Toronto?
While the storm of rumours spirals across social media, it was Messi himself who (potentially) sent a hint about his involvement against Toronto, as he published a collaboration promoting Apple TV and the MLS Season Pass: “It’s Inter Miami vs Toronto FC on Wednesday, and the race for the playoffs is on”.
Who will play against Toronto?
Inter Miami’s most recent matches have seen the South Florida outfit use different tactical tweaks, as they have tried to prioritise defensive stability, but at the same time players like Facundo Farías have also taken centre stage in the attack, as well as Leonardo Campana. For the game against Toronto, Martino could throw Messi alongside these two players in the attackig line for what would be a strong - and very fun - shakeup.
