Inter Miami’s head coach, Gerardo Martino, provided an update on Lionel Messi, noting that the superstar is not yet fully healthy but is progressively returning to action. He indicated that Messi is moving closer to a return and that a formal assessment would take place on Thursday and Friday to determine the exact timeline for his comeback.
Messi has missed recent matches due to the injury, with the club staying cautious about his return. The Argentinian forward joined Inter Miami after a two season spell with Paris Saint-Germain in the summer of 2023. He marked his debut with a free kick that found the back of the net, signaling his immediate impact, though his goal streak was halted after nine consecutive appearances.
During his 12 appearances for Inter Miami, Messi delivered 11 goals and 5 assists, showcasing his influence on the field. On August 20, he collected his first trophy in American soccer as Inter Miami captured the League Cup by defeating Nashville in a dramatic penalty shootout, 10-9, in the championship match. This triumph underscored Messi’s ongoing contribution to the club and boosted the team’s momentum in the tournament. [Reported by MLS News]
Looking ahead, Inter Miami has another important fixture as they prepare to face Cincinnati on the road. The match will test the squad as they navigate without their leading scorer, while Messi continues his recovery with the coaching staff evaluating his condition to ensure a safe and effective return to play. The team remains focused on balancing caution with competitive urgency as they pursue continued success this season. [Source: League coverage]
Messi has already earned recognition for his performances since arriving in Major League Soccer, with discussions surrounding his potential MVP credentials reflecting the broader excitement around his impact on American soccer. Inter Miami supporters await the moment when Messi is officially cleared to contribute at full capacity, hoping his presence on the field will accelerate the club’s quest for more silverware this year. [Editorial note: MLS coverage]