Tata Martino gives important hint about Lionel Messi's return date after his injury

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

Messi has not played for Inter Miami since early June after joining Argentina's squad for the 2024 Copa America.

The 37-year-old captained Argentina to defend its continental title, but had to leave the field in the 1-0 final victory against Colombia due to an ankle injury.

Messi sat on the sidelines in tears and watched his teammates win the title.

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Martino has provided regular updates on Messi's recovery phase and the Argentine coach confirmed his return to light training earlier this month.

Messi has been left out of Argentina's squad for the two 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers in September, when the reigning world champions face Chile and Colombia.

Inter Miami had to surrender the Leagues Cup title in Messi's absence, but returned to MLS action last weekend with a magnificent 2-0 victory over Eastern Conference rivals Cincinnati.

Martino confirmed that the current plan is for Messi to return to action before the end of the regular season on October 19.

“There is no estimate of his return because you have to see how he feels when he gets back on the field training,” ESPN quoted him as saying.

“The medical team and fitness coaches are planning the work. But yes, he should return before the end of the regular season.”

Inter Miami currently sits atop the Eastern Conference and has eight league games left before the MLS Cup playoffs begin in late October.