Messi Set for Miami Return Before MLS Playoffs
Inter Miami manager Gerardo "Tata" Martino has confirmed that Lionel Messi will return to training imminently and is expected to feature for the team before the end of the regular MLS season. The Argentinian forward has been sidelined with an ankle ligament injury since the Copa América final in July, but Martino insists the injury is progressing as anticipated and that Messi is making good progress.
Messi was ruled out of Argentina's recent World Cup qualifiers against Chile and Colombia as he continues his rehabilitation. Martino refuted suggestions that the injury was more serious than initially thought, stating that Messi's recovery is on track and he is now undertaking physical training on the pitch.
"He is not yet training with the main group, but he is working with the physios," Martino said at a press conference. "He's developing well, and it was always likely he wouldn't be available for Argentina because he's not yet ready to play, but we're seeing good progress. We can't give a specific timeframe for his return, as that depends on how he feels as he steps up his training."
Martino revealed that Messi is on course to be back in action before the MLS playoffs, which kick off in the final week of October. "The medical staff and the physios have a plan in place for his recovery," Martino confirmed. "But he will return before the end of the regular season."
While Messi's return will be a huge boost for Inter Miami, the team is already in a strong position to qualify for the playoffs. They currently sit top of the Eastern Conference with 53 points from 25 matches, and a playoff berth is likely to be secured this weekend against FC Cincinnati.
The upcoming playoffs could be the last time Messi, Jordi Alba, Luis Suárez, and Sergio Busquets feature together in Miami colours. Suárez's contract expires at the end of the season, while Alba's contract includes an option for an additional year, meaning his future remains uncertain.
When questioned about the prospect of contract extensions for the quartet, Martino stated that discussions have not yet taken place. "There are no talks as of yet," he said. "But obviously, there's interest. However, the MLS structure presents a challenge, as it's not a league where you can simply act on interest alone. It's not the right time for such conversations as we're in the final stretch of the season, and everything will be done and dusted in three months."
With nine games left in the regular season before the playoffs commence on 26 October, Inter Miami fans will be hoping Messi's return can help the team make a strong push for the MLS Cup.
