By Lionel Messi, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, has returned to group training with Inter Miami on Wednesday, marking a significant step in his recovery from a severe right ankle sprain suffered during the Copa America final over six weeks ago.
While there is no official timeline for Messi’s return to match play, his presence in training has boosted the spirits of his teammates. Inter Miami, currently leading Major League Soccer this season, faces a decision on whether to include Messi in their upcoming match against Chicago on Saturday or to allow him additional recovery time until their September 14 fixture against Philadelphia.
Inter Miami goalkeeper Drake Callender expressed enthusiasm about Messi’s return to the training field. “To see him on the field is great,” Callender said after Wednesday’s session. “I know he’s been getting treatment every single day, training every single day. He’s dealt with things before. He’s been there, done that and he’s still doing it at the highest level.”
Messi’s impact on Inter Miami has been substantial, with 12 goals and 13 assists in just 12 MLS appearances this season. However, he has missed 14 of the club’s league matches, including the last eight, due to international duty with Argentina and his ankle injury recovery. His absence was also felt during Inter Miami’s four Leagues Cup matches as the team attempted to defend their title from the previous year.
The Argentine captain was not selected for his national team’s World Cup qualifiers in early September, allowing him to focus on his club recovery. This decision underscores the delicate balance between club and country commitments for international stars like Messi.
As Inter Miami enters a crucial phase of the MLS season, Messi’s return could prove pivotal. The team’s management and medical staff will likely exercise caution in determining the optimal timing for his competitive return, weighing the immediate need against long-term considerations for both the player and the club.
Messi’s journey back to full fitness is being closely monitored by soccer fans worldwide, highlighting his enduring influence on the sport and the growing profile of MLS as it hosts one of the game’s all-time greats.
