Lionel Messi Available for Inter Miami's MLS Match Against Columbus Crew

Expectations are high for Lionel Messi's potential appearance in Saturday's MLS match between Inter Miami and Columbus Crew, with kickoff scheduled for 8:30 PM. The Argentine captain fueled speculation by sharing the official match announcement on his Instagram story, featuring prominent images of himself.

Fans interpreted this gesture as a sign that Messi might return to play less than two weeks after participating in the 2026 World Cup final with the Argentine national team. Messi has already completed three training sessions with his teammates following his vacation in Argentina. Coach Guillermo Hoyos had indicated on Friday that he planned to discuss strategy with Messi to determine his role in upcoming matches for both the league and the Leagues Cup.

FIFA regulations allowed Messi 21 days of rest after Argentina's World Cup final loss, but he chose to rejoin training after only 10 days. He arrived in Miami from Rosario early Wednesday morning and was on the field with his team by mid-morning. In contrast, Rodrigo De Paul, also a participant in the World Cup final, rejoined the squad on Friday.

Neither Messi nor De Paul were listed among Inter Miami's absentees in the official MLS report for Saturday's home game. Hoyos, while not confirming Messi's participation, praised the commitment shown by both players for returning ahead of schedule. The team is facing numerous absences, including Ian Fray and Telasco Segovia due to suspension, and Maximiliano Falcón, Gonzalo Luján, and Sergio Reguilón due to various physical issues. "He just arrived, so we haven't had the space yet to talk properly. We are very happy that he has returned. The World Cup just ended and they are already here, both Messi and De Paul. We are surprised they didn't take longer vacations. The implication they have is to be thankful. For us it is important; they are gentlemen within football. They are great people," commented the coach in a club interview on Friday. Brazilian player Casemiro, recently presented officially after his debut last matchday, will also be present, having shared two training sessions with Messi and expressed his admiration.

“

He just arrived, so we haven't had the space yet to talk properly. We are very happy that he has returned. The World Cup just ended and they are already here, both Messi and De Paul. We are surprised they didn't take longer vacations. The implication they have is to be thankful. For us it is important; they are gentlemen within football. They are great people.