**Tata Martino Confirms Lionel Messi’s Imminent Return to Inter Miami Before MLS Season Ends**
Inter Miami head coach Gerardo “Tata” Martino has provided an exciting update for fans, confirming that Lionel Messi will soon be back in action. After being sidelined due to an ankle ligament injury sustained on July 14, Messi is set to rejoin his team for training and is expected to make his return to the pitch before the conclusion of the Major League Soccer (MLS) regular season.
Messi’s injury, which occurred during the Copa América final between Argentina and Colombia at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida, has kept the 37-year-old superstar out of play for a significant part of the season. His absence was particularly felt during Inter Miami’s entire 2024 Leagues Cup campaign. Despite the setback, Martino remains optimistic, stating that Messi’s recovery is progressing well.
In a recent interview with ESPN, Martino shared his thoughts on Messi’s condition. While he refrained from giving an exact date for Messi’s return, Martino emphasized that the star’s comeback is nearing. “I can’t specify the number of days before he returns to training, but it’s not far off,” Martino remarked. He also highlighted the dual nature of recovery, noting, “Injuries are both physical and mental challenges. Messi is working through both aspects of his recovery process.”
Martino further noted that Messi has been gradually increasing his workload on the field, signaling positive progress. “He’s feeling better each day,” Martino said. “He’s been training on the field for the past three or four days. While we can’t set an exact timeline, it’s clear that his return is close.”
Even without Messi, Inter Miami has continued to perform impressively, currently leading the MLS Eastern Conference with 53 points from 25 games. The team is in a strong position to secure a playoff spot, with their next match scheduled against FC Cincinnati at home on Saturday. Even if they don’t secure a win, various scenarios could still ensure their place in the postseason.
Since joining Inter Miami in 2023, Messi has had a profound impact, scoring 12 goals and providing 13 assists in just 12 regular-season matches (11 starts). His anticipated return is set to significantly boost the team as they approach the final critical phase of the season.
Inter Miami’s regular season will wrap up on October 19 with a match against the New England Revolution. Fans are eagerly awaiting Messi’s return, expecting him to play a pivotal role in the team’s push for postseason success.