Leonel Messi is set to make his return for Inter Miami on Saturday after a two-month absence due to an ankle injury. Coach Gerardo Martino confirmed Messi’s availability, saying he trained well and is part of the game plan.
Messi injured his right ankle on July 14 during Argentina’s Copa America victory over Colombia. Since then, he has missed eight MLS games and Argentina’s World Cup qualifiers. Martino expressed excitement about Messi’s return, calling it a big boost for the team.
Inter Miami has already secured a spot in the MLS Cup playoffs. Their playoff seeding will depend on the remaining regular-season games, which end on October 19. The playoffs will begin soon after and conclude with the MLS Cup on December 7.
Miami winger Robert Taylor also praised Messi’s impact in training. He noted how Messi’s competitive nature and leadership inspire the entire team. Taylor believes Messi’s return will boost their confidence and expects him to perform at his usual high level.
Despite Messi’s two-month absence, Taylor does not foresee any lasting effects from the injury. He believes Messi, an eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, will return to his peak form. The team is eager to have their star back on the field.
