Inter Miami star out against FC Cincinnati

World champion Lionel Messi will return before the end of the Major League Soccer season, Inter Miami coach Tata Martino said on Friday.

So, when will Messi play again? The answer is still up in the air.

Messi will not be available for Inter Miami's home game against FC Cincinnati on Saturday as his club needs a win to become the first MLS team to clinch a playoff spot this season.

But Messi has made significant progress in his recovery from a right ankle ligament injury this week and has returned to the field for individual training. The next step would be a return to training with teammates, a process that Inter Miami will not rush.