Leo Messi injury update and possible return date revealed for Inter Miami
Lionel Messi has had an injury riddled 23/24 season and the stretch seems to continue on and off the past year. Due to this, the Argentine captain had an off Copa America tournament as well (going by his usual standards) having only two goal contributions, but on par his usual in other key statistics.
The last straw came when the 37-year-old suffered a gruesome ankle injury in the final of the Copa America against Columbia, where he unfortunately had to be subbed off with tears in his eyes. Although Argentina eventually won after a late extra time winner by Lautaro Martinez, it was a sad sight to behold for fans to see the greatest player of all time crying while on the bench.
Messi has also been ruled out in the upcoming World Cup qualifiers for Argentina in early September, as head coach Lionel Scaloni does not want to put pressure on the veteran to return earlier than possible. Lionel Messi is currently enjoying vacation with his teammate and family friend Luis Suarez, but he is also focused on rehab to strengthen his ankle and aims to recover before the important MLS playoffs begin. Inter Miami currently stand first in the Eastern Conference table, and a fit Lionel Messi will heavily increase their chances of winning the MLS for the first time.
“The club wants Messi to get back into shape during September” : Hernan Claus
Recent news regarding Messi’s injury revealed the possible dates as to when he will be available, with the key target of him returning before the match against Philadelphia Union on September 14.
“There’s hope he might play some minutes against Chicago Fire on August 31, but the key target is the September 14 match against Philadelphia Union. Inter Miami is patient, aiming to have him fully fit for the playoffs starting in late October, with the goal of winning the MLS,” via journalist Hernan Claus from Diario Ole.
“Everyone agrees that Messi needs to be managed carefully, which is why there is a lot of calm around him. Over the next few days, he will start intensifying his training. The club wants Messi to get back into shape during September.” Claus added.
Inter Miami failed to defend their historic Leagues Cup victory from last year in which the 37-year-old shocked the western world by producing one of the most impressive overall campaigns in football. David Beckham and co. will surely hope the Argentine recovers quickly in order for a steady road ahead of the MLS playoffs.
As for the eight-time Ballon d’or winner, he is already the most decorated player in football history, but leading a club to their maiden league title would just be another record tick marked in the books.
