Lionel Messi He is expected to miss Inter Miami’s return to MLS action against rivals Cincinnati on August 24.
Messi has not played for Inter Miami since early June after joining Argentina’s training camp for the 2024 Copa America tournament.
The veteran striker led Argentina to a title defence in his adopted home city but was forced off in the 1-0 final win over Colombia with an ankle injury.
Inter Miami head coach Tata Martino had previously opted not to offer a time frame for Messi’s return from the problem as he wanted to give his captain the ideal rehabilitation period.
However, following their Leagues Cup exit against Columbus Crew, Martino confirmed that Messi is no closer to rejoining the team’s training ahead of their return to the league this month.
“Leo is evolving as expected, but there is still no precise date for when he could rejoin the group. He continues to work separately,” he was quoted as saying. OBJECTIVE.com.
“Leo’s absence affects us in different ways. His absence is compounded by the absence of other key players. But even when he’s the only one missing, he’s an important factor.”
Adding to Martino’s comments, teammate Sergio Busquets added his point of frustration over when Messi will be fit enough to return to the team.
“I would have liked to have him with us, but football brings injuries and setbacks. Leo makes the difference, we know that,” he said.
Current estimates indicate that Messi will move from inpidual training to team sessions by the end of August, with Inter Miami currently leading the MLS Eastern Conference by five points over Cincinnati.
