Inter Miami’s star forward, Lione Messi, is inching closer toward his return to action. Messi, who has been out since July due to an ankle injury, has resumed training, according to Miami’s head coach Gerardo “Tata” Martino.
Messi injured his ankle while on national duty with Argentina at 2024 Copa America, being forced to exit the tournament’s final game against Columbia in the second half. Argentina went on to win the game with Lautaro Martínez’s goal in extra time.
Messi’s return to training is a sign that he has been progressing well in recovery. However, Martino says that he has yet to receive a medical clearance to play in games.
“There were specific drills that we devised that would allow him a certain level of participation. But he still does not have medical clearance (to play),” Martino told The Athletic.
Martino previously stated that Messi is expected to return to Inter Miami’s lineup before the MLS regular season wraps up.
Before going down with the injury, Messi was in spectacular form, scoring 12 goals and contributing nine assists in 12 MLS matches. He also added two goals and two assists in the CONCACAF Champions Cup.
Even without Messi, Miami has managed to keep its place at the top of the Eastern Conference. Miami is first with 56 points from 26 games, eight more than second-placed FC Cincinnati. Martino’s team is also in the lead for the Supporter’s Shield trophy, having four more points than Western Conference leaders LA Galaxy.
