Lionel Messi made his return to Inter Miami on Wednesday, just ten days after Argentina’s heartbreaking defeat to Spain in the World Cup final.
Inter Miami posted a photo of Messi arriving at the team’s training facility in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. A source confirmed to ESPN’s Lizzy Becherano that the 39-year-old was training at full capacity on the same day.
During the previous week, Messi spent time in his hometown of Rosario, Argentina, where he was reunited with his 68-year-old father, Jorge. The family faced a challenging time, as it was disclosed during the World Cup that a family member was undergoing treatment for an unspecified illness.
Messi had an impressive World Cup, scoring eight goals and providing four assists, leading Argentina to a thrilling final. However, despite his best efforts, he couldn’t prevent the loss to Spain at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, a defeat that left him visibly upset and raised questions about his international future.
The superstar previously guided Argentina to victory in the 2022 World Cup final against France, with prior triumphs including back-to-back Copa America titles in 2021 and 2024.
In a heartfelt Instagram post after the World Cup final, Messi expressed his emotions, stating, “The pain is immense and it will take time for this wound to heal. But I also cherish all the good things… the games in which we gave our all and turned around will remain in our memories forever.” He acknowledged the support from his country and the team’s hard work in achieving greatness.
Messi missed Inter Miami’s matches against Chicago Fire FC and CF Montreal last week, and it was confirmed that he would not participate in the MLS All-Star Game on Wednesday.
As Inter Miami prepares to host Columbus Crew in MLS on Saturday and initiate its League Cup campaign against Liga MX’s Atlético de San Luis on August 5th, fans are eager to know when Messi will return to competitive play. Coach Guillermo Hoyos emphasized that both Messi and his Argentine teammate, Rodrigo de Paul, would not be rushed back into action.
“I believe, and have said this many times, that rest is crucial,” Hoyos remarked. “It’s a part of personal growth and development. They need this time, and we are fully supportive of whatever they require. There’s no definitive return date.” He added that both players need time to recover fully after an intense World Cup campaign.
Additionally, teammate Germán Bertelame was spotted returning to Miami’s training facility on Wednesday. After suffering an injury from an opponent’s elbow during the recent match against Montreal, Bertelame was hospitalized but has since been discharged and is on the mend.
Inter Miami reported that Bertelame sustained injuries to his left shoulder and nose, but is recovering well.
