Lionel Messi is back ladies and gentlemen. At least, that’s the report from Inter Miami and head coach Tata Martino.
The Herons head coach announced that Messi is available for selection as Inter Miami host the Philadelphia Union on Saturday.
"Yes, he's fine now," Martino said. "Yesterday he returned to training, he's under consideration for (Saturday). We'll define our strategy for him after today's session, but he's available."
The club also posted that he’ll be back for the Union showdown.
Lionel Messi return from injury
Mañana en casa
Secure your tickets now: https://t.co/3UEscY18Of pic.twitter.com/swiImCO8CK— Inter Miami CF (@InterMiamiCF) September 13, 2024
Messi has been recovering from ligament damage in his ankle that he suffered during the Copa América final vs. Colombia on July 14. Fans everywhere saw video and picture of Messi’s ankle akin to the size of softball due to swelling.
Messi's swollen ankle pic.twitter.com/DQ2qCnuiMa
— Bleacher Report (@BleacherReport) July 15, 2024
If Messi makes an appearance on Saturday it will be his first time playing for Inter Miami in 105 days.
Inter Miami have held steady without their biggest star as they sit eight points clear of FC Cincinnati in the Eastern Conference and have a seven-point gap on LA Galaxy for the Supporter’s Shield.
Luis Suárez has played a major role in the Heron’s success with 16 goals in 20 appearances.
Shockingly, Messi isn’t out of the MLS Golden Boot race despite missing half the season. The Argentine has recorded 12 goals in his 12 league appearances so far. He’s just six behind league leader Christian Benteke.
Messi and company have seven regular season games left until the playoffs which they’ve already qualified for.
Inter Miami vs. Philadelphia Union kicks off at 7:30 p.m. ET on Saturday.
