Argentine star rejoins Inter Miami ahead of MLS clash with Columbus Crew and upcoming Leagues Cup campaign
Lionel Messi has returned to training with Inter Miami after taking time off following Argentina’s defeat in the FIFA World Cup 2026 final.
The Major League Soccer (MLS) club confirmed the development on Wednesday, with the Argentine superstar rejoining preparations ahead of a busy schedule that includes league and cup competitions.
Inter Miami shared footage on social media showing Messi back on the training ground alongside veteran striker Luis Suarez.
The session marked the 39-year-old’s first appearance with the club since the conclusion of the World Cup, where Argentina narrowly missed out on defending their title.
Following Argentina’s 1-0 loss to Spain in the World Cup final on July 19 in New Jersey, Messi spent time with his family in his hometown of Rosario.
Reports indicated that the disappointment of missing a second consecutive World Cup triumph continued to weigh heavily on the Argentine captain.
In a message posted on social media after the final, Messi expressed deep disappointment over the result and acknowledged that recovering from the setback would take considerable time.
Despite the emotional impact of the defeat, he has now returned to club duties as Inter Miami prepare for crucial upcoming fixtures.
Messi has not yet announced whether he will continue representing Argentina on the international stage. His future with the national team remains uncertain following the unsuccessful defense of the World Cup crown.
During Messi’s absence, Inter Miami head coach Guillermo Hoyos emphasized the need for patience regarding the return of both Messi and fellow Argentine Rodrigo De Paul, who also participated in the World Cup.
Hoyos noted that major international tournaments place significant physical and mental demands on players and stressed the importance of allowing them adequate recovery time.
Both Messi and De Paul were granted special permission by MLS to miss the league’s All-Star Game in Charlotte, North Carolina.
League officials approved the exemption due to their recent World Cup commitments and limited recovery period.
Inter Miami will next host Columbus Crew in MLS action on Saturday before launching their Leagues Cup campaign against Mexican club San Luis on Wednesday. Messi’s return is expected to provide a major boost as the team enters a crucial phase of the season.