Messi returns to Inter Miami training after World Cup final, return date undecided

Lionel Messi has resumed training with Inter Miami following Argentina's loss in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final to Spain on July 19 in New Jersey. The 39-year-old forward returned to the club's Fort Lauderdale facility after approximately ten days of rest, during which he visited his hometown of Rosario to check on his father Jorge's health. Messi trained fully on Wednesday alongside teammate Rodrigo De Paul and new signing Casemiro, though neither player's participation in upcoming matches has been confirmed.

Head coach Guillermo Hoyos stated that no final decision has been made regarding Messi's competitive return, citing the need for further conversations with the player. "He only just got back. We haven't really had the chance to have a proper conversation yet," Hoyos said on Friday. "We're genuinely happy that they've returned and are back at the club." Both Messi and De Paul missed Inter Miami's recent MLS victories over Chicago Fire and CF Montréal, as well as the 2026 MLS All-Star Game. Major League Soccer confirmed that clubs agreed with the Players Association to grant World Cup participants individual recovery plans determined collaboratively with each player.

Inter Miami faces a demanding schedule with an MLS match against Columbus Crew on Saturday, August 2, followed by a Leagues Cup opener against Atlético San Luis on August 5. Coach Hoyos expressed concern about the fixture congestion, noting the physical toll of consecutive matches with minimal rest. "The match load is heavy and takes a real toll. Competition itself is draining," he said. One report suggested Messi may appear as a substitute in Saturday's match, with potential involvement in the Leagues Cup beginning the following week.

Messi recorded eight goals and four assists during the World Cup, leading Argentina to the final for the second consecutive tournament. He played the full 120 minutes of the final, while De Paul featured for 70 minutes. The club's other signings, including Brazilian midfielder Casemiro and recovered forward Germán Berterame, are available for selection. Inter Miami currently sits second in the Eastern Conference with 37 points, two points behind Nashville SC.