Lionel Messi has officially returned to Inter Miami training, rejoining the squad on Wednesday after a brief but essential break in Argentina following the 2026 FIFA World Cup final. As reported by beIN SPORTS, the Argentine superstar took time off after the tournament before reporting back to the club for the first time since Major League Soccer paused its season in May.
Messi, the captain of the Argentina national team, spent nearly 10 days on vacation in his home country after Argentina’s heartbreaking defeat to Spain in the World Cup final on July 19. The loss was a bitter disappointment for the 39-year-old, who admitted on social media that the defeat would take time to overcome.
“The loss was extremely painful,” Messi wrote, acknowledging that it would take time to heal after coming so close to lifting another World Cup trophy with Argentina.
Inter Miami confirmed Messi’s return to its Fort Lauderdale training base with a social media post showing the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner arriving with his customary mate. According to beIN SPORTS, Messi returned to the United States alongside Argentina and Inter Miami teammate Rodrigo De Paul, although the club has yet to officially confirm De Paul’s return to full training.
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Recovery and potential return to action
Both Messi and De Paul were originally selected for the 2026 MLS All-Star Game against Liga MX’s best players but were excused to allow them additional recovery time after their demanding World Cup campaign. The decision highlights Inter Miami’s focus on carefully managing the workload of two of its most important players.
Despite missing their Argentine stars, Inter Miami continued its strong form by recording victories over Chicago Fire and CF Montréal. With Messi now back on the training pitch, attention has quickly shifted to when he will make his competitive return.
According to beIN SPORTS, there are two realistic options for Messi’s comeback:
- This Saturday against Columbus Crew in MLS.
- August 5, when Inter Miami opens its Leagues Cup campaign against Atlético de San Luis.
At 39 years old, and after another emotionally and physically exhausting World Cup run, Inter Miami is expected to take a cautious approach with Messi’s minutes. Nevertheless, his return to training is a major boost for the club, with supporters now awaiting official confirmation of the match in which the Argentine legend will make his long-awaited return.
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