Lionel Messi is poised to return to the pitch with Inter Miami after a two-month absence due to an ankle injury sustained during the Copa America final. Miami’s coach, Gerardo Martino, confirmed that Messi has resumed training and is available for the upcoming match against the Philadelphia Union.
Key Takeaways
- Messi injured his right ankle during the Copa America final on July 14.
- He has missed eight MLS games and World Cup qualifiers during his recovery.
- Inter Miami leads the Eastern Conference and has secured a playoff spot.
- Messi’s return is expected to boost team morale and performance.
Injury Background
Messi’s injury occurred on July 14, 2024, during the Copa America final, where he played a crucial role in Argentina’s victory over Colombia. The injury sidelined him for over two months, during which he missed significant matches for both his club and national team.
Coach’s Confirmation
On Friday, coach Gerardo Martino announced that Messi is fit to play. "Yes, he is fine," Martino stated. "He trained (Thursday), he is in the plans for the game. After training, we will figure out the strategy for him, but he is available."
Team Performance Without Messi
Despite Messi’s absence, Inter Miami has performed admirably, currently leading the Eastern Conference and securing a spot in the MLS Cup playoffs. The regular season concludes on October 19, with playoffs starting the following week and culminating in the MLS Cup on December 7.
Player Reactions
Miami’s Finnish winger, Robert Taylor, expressed excitement about Messi’s return, stating, "We’re already confident, but he gives us even more confidence now that he’s back training and hopefully he’s ready to play soon." Taylor emphasized Messi’s competitive spirit in training, which elevates the team’s overall performance.
Expectations for Messi’s Return
While two months is a considerable time for any player to be sidelined, Taylor believes that Messi’s exceptional talent will shine through. "Of course, two months is a long time for anyone, but he’s the best player there is. So, I don’t think we’ll see much of a different Messi than we’ve seen before," he added.
Conclusion
Lionel Messi’s return to Inter Miami is highly anticipated, not just for the team but also for fans who have missed witnessing his extraordinary skills on the field. As the playoffs approach, his presence could be a game-changer for Miami’s quest for the MLS Cup.