Lionel Messi is set to make his return to action with Major League Soccer club Inter Miami after being sidelined for more than two months with an ankle injury. The Argentina star last played for his club on June 1 and has been out of action since spraining his ankle in the July 14 Copa America final against Colombia. However, Inter Miami coach Gerardo Martino has confirmed that Messi will be available for selection for the upcoming game against Philadelphia Union on Saturday.
Martino told reporters that Messi returned to training on Friday and is fine to play in the game. The coach expressed his excitement at having the best player in the world back in the team and said that they are all happy about the situation. Messi had sat out a training session earlier in the week due to a sore throat but was able to participate in the team’s session on Thursday. Martino is hopeful that Messi will continue to progress and be ready for the game on Saturday.
Inter Miami is currently in a strong position in the MLS, closing in on the Supporters’ Shield and the top playoff seed in the Eastern Conference with 59 points from 27 games. Messi has been a key player for the team this season, recording 12 goals and 13 assists in just 12 matches – making him the fastest player in league history to reach 25 goal contributions. Despite missing eight MLS games and this month’s World Cup qualifiers for Argentina, Messi has been a standout performer for Inter Miami.
The absence of Messi was felt by Argentina as they suffered a shock loss to Colombia in a World Cup qualifier on Tuesday. The Copa America champions missed their talismanic captain’s presence on the field and will be eager to have him back for upcoming matches. Messi’s return to action will come as a boost not only for Inter Miami but also for the Argentine national team as they look to secure their place in the World Cup.
Overall, Messi’s return to action with Inter Miami is eagerly anticipated by fans and teammates alike. His presence on the field has been crucial for the team’s success this season, and his return will undoubtedly strengthen their position in the league. With the prospect of closing in on the Supporters’ Shield and securing the top playoff seed, having Messi back in the squad will be a major advantage for Inter Miami. His ability to score goals and create opportunities for his teammates will be key as they aim for success in the MLS.
