Lionel Messi Set for Inter Miami Comeback Against LA Galaxy
Lionel Messi is expected to make his much-anticipated return to the pitch for Inter Miami CF as they host the LA Galaxy this Saturday at Chase Stadium (7:30 pm ET | MLS Season Pass, Apple TV+). The Argentine superstar has been sidelined since August 2 with a hamstring injury sustained during Miami’s penalty shootout win over Necaxa in the Leagues Cup.
Head coach Javier Mascherano confirmed Friday that Messi has been back in full training since Wednesday and, barring any last-minute setbacks, will be available for the match. "Leo is doing well. He’s been training with the team… unless something strange happens, he’ll be available," Mascherano told reporters.
A Crucial Week Ahead
Just four days after the LA Galaxy clash, Inter Miami will face Tigres UANL in the Leagues Cup quarterfinals (8 pm ET | MLS Season Pass, Apple TV+; FS1, UniMás). The Herons are looking to defend their 2023 Leagues Cup title, a tournament Messi won in his debut season with the club.Chasing Records
Despite missing recent games, the 38-year-old forward has been in spectacular form, leading the Golden Boot presented by Audi race with 18 goals and 9 assists in just 18 MLS appearances. He is also in contention to become the first-ever repeat winner of the Landon Donovan MLS MVP award.With the season entering a decisive phase, Messi’s return could be the boost Inter Miami needs to push for silverware on multiple fronts.
