MLS
Messi’s return to Inter Miami remains in doubt
The captain of Inter Miami is getting closer to returning to the field, but he is still training separately.
After the September international break, Inter Miami will resume its 2024 MLS season, aiming to maintain the strong form they’ve shown so far. With 59 points from 27 matches—18 wins, five draws, and only four losses—they have already secured a playoff spot and sit top of the Eastern Conference, a significant improvement from last season when they fell short towards the end of the campaign.
Although they failed to defend their title in the 2024 Leagues Cup, being eliminated in the Round of 16 by the eventual champions, Columbus Crew, Inter Miami are now focused on pursuing the Supporters’ Shield, awarded to the team with the most points at the end of the regular season.
Why is Lionel Messi training alone?
This Saturday, September 14, Inter Miami will host the Philadelphia Union at Chase Stadium as they continue their 2024 Major League Soccer season. Coach Gerardo Martino is eager to recover his key player and captain, Leo Messi, who injured his ankle in the Copa América final and has been sidelined ever since, missing action with both Inter Miami and Argentina.
Messi has returned to ball training, and while his comeback with Inter Miami is approaching, new setbacks have emerged. In addition to his ongoing ankle issues, he recently trained separately due to the flu.
We’ll soon find out if Inter Miami’s captain will make the squad for the match against Philadelphia Union, allowing him to get back on the field. Fans are eager to see the return of the ‘10,’ as Messi’s last appearance was in the 2024 Copa América final, where Argentina secured back-to-back championships.
TyC Sports journalist Gastón Edul confirmed that Messi “is still on track to return in one of Inter Miami’s next two games,” meaning the wait is nearly over. So far this season, Messi has tallied 12 goals and 9 assists in just 12 matches.