Messi returned after his father’s death but could not prevent Inter Miami from suffering a 3-2 defeat to Leon.

Lionel Messi made an emotional return to action for Inter Miami on Wednesday, featuring in the second half of the club’s 3-2 defeat to Mexican side Leon in the final group-stage match of the Leagues Cup.

The Argentina captain had been away from the team following the death of his father, Jorge Messi, who passed away in Rosario last week at the age of 68 after a prolonged illness. Jorge had also been Messi’s agent since the football star was 14 years old.

Messi attended his father’s private funeral in Argentina on Sunday before travelling back to the United States. His return to the Inter Miami squad came just days after an emotional social media message in which he expressed uncertainty about how long he would continue playing professional football.

The 39-year-old had missed Inter Miami’s 2-1 loss to Monterrey on Saturday but made himself available for the decisive clash against Leon. He began the match on the bench before entering at half-time to a huge reception from the home supporters.

Despite Messi’s return, Inter Miami were unable to avoid defeat and were eliminated from the Leagues Cup during the opening stage for the first time since the competition was expanded in 2023.

The tournament holds particular significance for Messi, as he joined Inter Miami in 2023 and immediately inspired the club to its first Leagues Cup title. This time, however, Miami’s campaign ended without a place in the knockout rounds.

Messi had previously revealed that his father encouraged him to continue playing in the hope of representing Argentina at another World Cup. Messi eventually featured for Argentina at this summer’s tournament, where the defending champions reached the final before suffering a 1-0 extra-time defeat to Spain.

Inter Miami midfielder Yannick Bright highlighted Messi’s commitment to returning despite the difficult circumstances surrounding his family. He viewed the Argentine’s presence as a major motivation for the team.

Leon coach Javier Gandolfi also praised Messi’s character, emphasizing that his return demonstrated the exceptional qualities that have distinguished him throughout his career.