Inter Miami’s head coach, Gerardo “Tata” Martino, recently provided an update on Lionel Messi’s injury and his expected return to training and the field. Messi has been sidelined with an ankle ligament injury since July, causing him to miss out on crucial matches for both Inter Miami and the Argentine national team.
Martino mentioned that Messi has been making progress in his recovery and is already out on the field working with physical trainers. He denied that the injury was more serious than initially anticipated and stated that Messi’s return to training and eventually playing in matches is imminent.
Expected Return Date for Messi
According to Martino, Messi is expected to be back before the end of the MLS regular season, which is set to conclude in the last week of October. While there is no specific timeline provided, Martino expressed confidence that Messi is on the right track and getting closer to full fitness.
Despite Messi’s absence, Inter Miami currently leads the Eastern Conference with 53 points in 25 games. The team is poised to secure a playoff spot this weekend, even if they do not win their upcoming match against FC Cincinnati. The potential return of Messi could further strengthen the team’s chances in the playoffs.
The 2024 playoffs might mark the last time key players like Jordi Alba, Luis Suárez, and Sergio Busquets share the field together for Inter Miami. Suárez’s contract is set to expire at the end of the season, while Alba’s future with the team remains uncertain. Martino indicated that there have been no negotiations yet for contract extensions.
Challenges for Inter Miami Moving Forward
Martino acknowledged that navigating MLS’s restrictions and financial limitations poses challenges when it comes to retaining top players like Messi, Suárez, and Alba. The coach emphasized the need to focus on the current season and playoffs, rather than discussing future contract negotiations.
As Inter Miami prepares for the final stretch of the regular season and the upcoming playoffs, the team’s fans eagerly await Messi’s return to the field. Martino’s optimistic outlook on Messi’s recovery and the team’s playoff prospects provide hope for a successful end to the season. The future of key players and potential contract negotiations will be crucial factors to monitor in the coming months.