Lionel Messi Returns to Inter Miami Training After World Cup Final

Lionel Messi has rejoined Inter Miami's training sessions, marking his return to club duties just ten days after Argentina's defeat in the 2026 World Cup final. The Major League Soccer (MLS) icon was pictured on the training pitch alongside his close friend Luis Suárez, as shared in a video by Inter Miami on social media.

Messi spent a week resting with his family in Rosario, Argentina, following the heartbreaking 1-0 loss to Spain in East Rutherford, New Jersey. His only public comment after the World Cup disappointment came via Instagram on July 20, where he expressed the deep pain of the loss, stating, "The pain is very great and it will be difficult to close this wound." The 39-year-old Argentine star has not yet confirmed his future with the national team.

Inter Miami's coach, Guillermo Hoyos, had previously indicated that Messi and fellow Argentine international Rodrigo De Paul would need time to recover from the World Cup. "A World Cup is tremendous, and there is wear and tear, both physical and mental. They deserve to have their space," Hoyos stated a week prior. Both players were granted release by the MLS from participating in the All-Star Game, which featured a combined team from North America and Mexico.

Messi has a history of missing the exhibition match, having been sidelined due to injury in 2024 and declining participation in 2025, which resulted in a one-game MLS suspension. It remains uncertain whether Messi will feature in Inter Miami's upcoming Saturday match against Columbus Crew. If he does not play, he is likely to be reserved for the Leagues Cup, where Inter Miami begins their campaign on August 5 against San Luis.

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Necesitan el tiempo. Un Mundial es algo tremendo y hay un desgaste, tanto físico como mental. Se merecen tener su espacio