Lionel Messi has not played for Inter Miami since the start of June, yet the Argentine international’s return could finally be about to happen.
Messi returned to Inter Miami training this week with the forward making good progress on recovering from an ankle injury suffered during the Copa America final in July, with the 37-year-old taking his time with the rehabilitation.
With Messi not named in Argentina’s international squad for this month’s fixtures, the former FC Barcelona superstar will be given even more time to work on his fitness ahead of his return to MLS action.
And Tata Martino has now shared what game Messi is likely to return for Inter Miami.
Philadelphia Union eyed as Messi’s comeback game for Inter Miami
Speaking to the press after last night’s 4-1 win against the Chicago Fire, Martino publically confirmed that Inter Miami’s tie against the Philadelphia Union on September 14th is being circled as the game Messi will return to action.
With Inter Miami already through to the MLS play-offs and leading the Supporters’ Shield charge, Messi is returning at the ideal time for the Herons, with the pressure off for the Argentine to play every game and to risk further injury.
Maritno said when asked if Messi will be back in action for Inter Miami this week: “Leo is doing well and has been training with the group for some time now.
“We felt that for the time he could give us in this match, it might be better to consider the next 15 days. Ultimately, we discussed it and concluded that this second option was better. So, we’re aiming to have him available for the match against Philadelphia.”
Messi will be desperate to get back playing for Inter Miami
It’s been a long time since Messi was last seen playing for Inter Miami, and with a date in the calendar now set, the Argentine international will be eager to back on the pitch for the Herons.
With the pressure off somewhat for Inter Miami between now and the start of the play-offs, there will be a huge incentive for the Florida franchise to go easy on Messi and to build up his fitness in the coming weeks.
Indeed, Messi could be key to Inter Miami’s MLS Cup success, and keeping the attacker fit and healthy must be the goal for the Herons in their remaining regular season games this year.