Lionel Messi is set to make his much-anticipated return to the Inter Miami lineup after a two-month recovery from an ankle injury. The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner will rejoin the team as they prepare to face Philadelphia on Saturday, marking a significant moment for both the player and the club.
“Messi is available,” stated Inter Miami’s head coach, Gerardo “Tata” Martino, during a press briefing ahead of the team’s training session. His words bring hope to fans eager to see the soccer legend back on the pitch.
While Martino confirmed Messi’s availability, he refrained from disclosing whether the star would start the match, come off the bench, or have any limitations on his playing time.
Messi’s return is expected to provide a significant boost to Inter Miami, who currently boasts the best record in Major League Soccer. Despite missing nine consecutive MLS matches and a total of 15 games this season, the team has managed to secure a playoff spot, demonstrating their resilience.
The last time Messi graced the field for Inter Miami was on June 1. His absence was initially due to international duties with Argentina during the Copa América, followed by the ankle injury that kept him sidelined.
In his limited appearances this season, Messi has made a remarkable impact, scoring 12 goals and providing 13 assists in just 12 MLS matches. His 13 assists rank third in the league, showcasing his exceptional playmaking ability even while missing a substantial portion of the season.
