Photo via Inter Miami on X
The sight that every Inter Miami fan has been waiting for finally arrived this morning — Lionel Messi was back in full training.
The Argentine superstar, who has been sidelined in recent weeks with a muscle issue, returned to action at the Florida Blue Training Center. He participated in warm-ups, tactical drills, and small-sided games, showing no visible signs of discomfort.
Reporters at the facility captured every moment. Within minutes, social media was flooded with clips of Messi’s trademark sharp turns, precise passing, and vocal leadership on the pitch. Fans immediately began speculating that he could make the squad for this weekend’s blockbuster against LA Galaxy.
Messi’s presence instantly lifted the mood around the session. Players seemed sharper, communication was constant, and the atmosphere felt electric — the kind only the world’s greatest player can create.
De Paul Absent for Administrative Reasons
While Messi’s return dominated headlines, Rodrigo De Paul was notably absent from today’s session. The Argentine midfielder, who has already been a key figure in Miami’s midfield since his arrival, traveled in person to complete his visa process, a source close to the club confirmed. Importantly, De Paul remains fully fit and available for selection, with his absence purely for administrative purposes.
Cautious Optimism from the Coaching Staff
Despite the excitement, Inter Miami’s technical team remains cautious. This is not the first time Messi has trained during the week only to miss the matchday squad.
Head coach Javier Mascherano has repeatedly emphasized the need for patience. He has made it clear that Messi’s long-term fitness takes priority over short-term appearances — particularly with several high-intensity fixtures coming up in the MLS calendar.
That approach has frustrated some fans, but it has also protected the team’s most valuable asset. Mascherano knows that rushing Messi back could risk a setback, and that’s a chance Miami can’t afford at this stage of the season.
Will Messi Feature Against LA Galaxy?
So, will Messi play? The answer remains uncertain.
His full participation in training is a positive sign, but it does not guarantee inclusion in the final squad.
Mascherano and the medical staff will make their decision closer to matchday after assessing his physical response over the next 48 hours.
For now, optimism is high, excitement is back, and Miami’s training ground feels alive again. Fans are holding their breath — hoping that when the team sheet drops this weekend, Lionel Messi’s name will finally be on it.
