Inter Miami head coach Gerardo 'Tata' Martino has officially confirmed that soccer superstar Lionel Messi will be available to play in the upcoming match against the Philadelphia Union. The game is scheduled to take place on Saturday at Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
Messi is making his comeback after a two-month absence due to a right ankle sprain sustained during the 2024 Copa América final on July 14. Martino assured fans that Messi is in good condition, stating, 'He's fine. Yesterday he returned to training and is contemplated for tomorrow's game. We are thrilled to have the best player in the world back on the team.'
Concerns arose earlier in the week when Messi missed training due to a sore throat. However, Martino clarified that the illness was short-lived, lasting only one day. Messi resumed training on Thursday and also participated in Friday's morning session.
Inter Miami is currently leading both the Supporters' Shield and Eastern Conference standings with 59 points from 27 games. The team is on track to potentially break the Major League Soccer record for most points in a single regular season. Additionally, Inter Miami has already secured a spot in the 2024 MLS playoffs, marking a successful return to the postseason after failing to qualify in the previous year.