Sergio Busquets and Tata Martino concerned by Lionel Messi's injury return

Lionel Messi is expected to miss Inter Miami's return to MLS action against rivals Cincinnati on August 24.

Messi has not featured for Inter Miami since the start of June after joining up with the Argentina camp for the 2024 Copa America tournament.

The veteran forward led Argentina to a title defense in his adopted city but was forced off in their 1-0 final win over Colombia due to an ankle injury.

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Inter Miami head coach Tata Martino previously opted against offering a timeframe on Messi's return from the issue as he wanted to give his captain the ideal rehabilitation period.

However, following their Leagues Cup exit against Columbus Crew, Martino confirmed Messi is no closer to rejoining team training ahead of their return to league matters this month.

"Leo is progressing as expected, but there’s still no precise date on when he might rejoin the group. He continues to work separately", as per quotes from GOAL.com .

"Leo’s absence affects us in different ways. His absence is also compounded by the absence of other key players. But even when it’s just him missing, it's a significant factor."

Alongside Martino's comments, teammate Sergio Busquets added his point of frustration over when Messi will be fit enough to come back into the team.

"I wish we could've had him with us but football brings injuries and setbacks. Leo makes the difference, we know that", he said.

Current estimates indicate Messi will move from individual training to team sessions at the end of August with Inter Miami currently leading Cincinnati at the top of the MLS Eastern Conference by five points.