Messi's Return to Inter Miami Imminent

Lionel Messi is set to return to Inter Miami before the MLS playoffs, according to head coach Gerardo "Tata" Martino. The 37-year-old superstar has been sidelined since suffering a high-ankle injury during the Copa America final on July 14. While Martino could not provide a specific timeline for Messi's return, he confirmed that the forward would participate in at least one of the remaining nine regular-season matches, which conclude on October 19. Messi has been undergoing individual training and is reportedly feeling better after working on the field for several days. Martino emphasized the dual nature of recovery, addressing both physical and mental aspects of the injury. Although Messi will miss the upcoming match against FC Cincinnati, he is expected to rejoin full training soon, with the possibility of returning before the playoffs begin in late October. Inter Miami currently leads the Eastern Conference with 53 points, despite Messi's absence since June 1. The team can secure a playoff spot with a win against FC Cincinnati. Earlier reports suggested a potential return for Messi on August 31 against the Chicago Fire, but Martino's recent comments have cast doubt on that timeline, indicating that a more realistic return might be against the Philadelphia Union on September 14. As Messi continues his recovery, he has been omitted from Argentina's national team roster for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers. Meanwhile, the Chicago Fire have announced plans to compensate fans if Messi does not play in their match, highlighting the star's significant impact on attendance and fan engagement.