Tata Martino drops major hint on Lionel Messi's injury return date

Inter Miami head coach Tata Martino has confirmed Lionel Messi will return from injury before the end of the regular MLS season.

Messi has not featured for Inter Miami since the start of June after linking up with the Argentina squad at the 2024 Copa America.

The 37-year-old captained Argentina to a continental title defence but was forced off in their 1-0 final victory against Colombia with an ankle injury.

Messi was left in tears he sat on the sidelines and watched his teammates secure the title.

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Martino has offered regular updates on Messi's recovery period, with the Argentinian coach confirming his return to light training earlier this month.

Messi has been omitted from the Argentina panel for their two FIFA 2026 World Cup qualifiers in September with the defending world champions taking on Chile and Colombia.

Inter Miami saw their Leagues Cup title slip away in Messi's absence but they returned to MLS action with a superb 2-0 win over Eastern Conference rivals Cincinnati last weekend.

Martino confirmed the current plan sees Messi back in action before the completion of the regular season on October 19.

"There's no estimate on his return, because you need to see how you feel back training on the field", as per quotes from ESPN .

"The work is planned by the medical team and the physical trainers. But yes, he should return before the end of the regular season."

Inter Miami are currently top of the Eastern Conference, with eight league games to go, ahead of the start of the MLS Cup playoffs at the end of October.