Inter Miami has revealed the exact date when Lionel Messi could return to the pitch, after recovering from an ankle injury that has kept him out of action since the Copa America final on July 14.
The Argentine star, who suffered a ligament tear in his right ankle during the final, has been absent since then, ruling him out of Argentina’s World Cup qualifiers in September against Colombia and Chile. Despite initial concern, the news on Messi is positive, Olé reports.
Messi, 37, has followed his treatment plan diligently and his ankle is in good condition. However, Inter Miami is in no rush to reintegrate him into the team. According to sources, the potential date for his return is September 14, when Gerardo Martino’s team faces the Philadelphia Union at home.
While some fans are dreaming of Messi being ready before that game, the club has a long-term view on his recovery, wanting to ensure he is at his best by the end of the season. With Inter Miami leading the MLS Eastern Conference and aiming to win the MLS Cup, handling Messi’s return in the most effective way will be crucial.
Inter Miami will face FC Cincinnati on August 24, a month after their heavy 6-1 defeat to Pat Noonan’s side. Messi is expected to return to training in the coming days, which will be a relief and a source of joy for the club and its fans.
