Lionel Messi, the heartbeat of Inter Miami, is poised to make a triumphant return as the team prepares for a high-stakes Leagues Cup semifinal showdown against Orlando City on Wednesday, August 27. After missing the last two matches due to a muscle issue sustained against Necaxa, the Argentine superstar has fans buzzing with excitement following a positive update from assistant coach Javier Morales.
Morales confirmed that both Messi and teammate Jordi Alba trained seamlessly with the squad, raising hopes for their inclusion in the crucial matchup. “Jordi and Leo trained with us, they did well. They completed the training. We’ll see how they feel throughout the day. Tomorrow we’ll make a decision for the match,” Morales told reporters, barely containing his optimism. “Luckily they trained, and that’s very positive. We have to wait.”
Despite Inter Miami’s resilience in securing a draw in MLS and a vital Leagues Cup victory without their captain, Messi’s potential return promises to ignite a “big bang explosion” on the pitch. Morales hinted that the final roster is still under consideration but expressed confidence in Messi’s availability. “We hope he’s on the roster. These types of muscle injuries are a process—you have to see how the player feels the next day. I imagine he’ll be there, but we haven’t submitted the roster yet,” he added.
Jordi Alba, who suffered a knee knock during Inter Miami’s Leagues Cup quarterfinal against Tigres, was also rested alongside Messi for the recent MLS match against DC United. Head coach Javier Mascherano’s cautious approach ensured both stars had ample time to recover, setting the stage for a fully fit dynamic duo to face Orlando City.
Messi’s absence began after an early substitution in Inter Miami’s Leagues Cup group-stage match against Necaxa, with initial expectations that he would miss around three games. However, the football icon defied the odds, making a stunning return in the third match against LA Galaxy. Coming off the bench at halftime, Messi delivered a breathtaking goal, reminding the world of his unparalleled brilliance.
Yet, Mascherano’s decision to leave Messi out of the subsequent matches against Tigres and DC United sparked questions about whether the team had rushed his recovery. Morales was quick to dismiss those concerns, emphasizing a meticulous approach. “I don’t think so. It’s a joint decision, we consult with the medical staff. Then there are things that happen that go beyond reason. We try to do what’s best for the team, but also for the player, especially a player like Leo,” he explained.
As Inter Miami prepares to face Orlando City, the prospect of Messi and Alba returning to the lineup has fans dreaming of a performance for the ages. With the team’s depth already proven in their absence, the return of their star players could propel Inter Miami to new heights in the Leagues Cup. The stage is set for a pulsating encounter, and all eyes will be on Messi to deliver the magic that only he can.