Inter Miami supporters were left feeling let down as their team crashed out of the Leagues Cup in the round of 16, suffering a 2-3 defeat to Colombus Crew on August 14 despite initially holding a 2-0 lead. This disappointing loss had fans wondering when Lionel Messi would make his return to the team.
Coach Tata Martino had previously reassured fans that Messi’s injury was not severe, indicating that he would only miss a couple of matches and should be back in time for the knockout stages of the Leagues Cup in August. It is very likely that the 37-year-old superstar will make his comeback in the round of 16 clash against Colombus Crew.
Inter Miami supporters are eagerly awaiting Messi’s return, but the star player is still absent from the field and has not been seen practicing. Despite Messi’s absence, Inter Miami managed to dominate a match against Colombus Crew for 65 minutes, leading 2-0. However, their luck quickly changed when they conceded three goals in a row, resulting in a disappointing 2-3 loss.
Coach Tata Martino expressed his disappointment with the outcome, blaming the team’s failure to protect their lead in the final minutes of the match. However, some Inter Miami fans believe that the coach’s decisions regarding player substitutions may have played a role in the defeat.
The uncertainty surrounding Messi’s absence has also affected the team’s morale, with players feeling anxious about his return. The fans are left wondering when they will see their favorite player back on the field, hoping for a turnaround in the team’s fortunes.
Messi is currently still in the process of recovering from his ankle injury through physical therapy, and has been taking some time off to spend with his family.
Following losses in the Leagues Cup and the quarterfinals in the CONCACAF Champions Cup, Inter Miami’s main focus for the 2024 season is now set on winning the MLS Cup championship at the end of the year.
Inter Miami is currently leading the MLS Eastern Conference with 53 points after 25 matches. Their upcoming match against FC Cincinnati, who are ranked just below them with 48 points, is scheduled for 6:30 a.m. on August 25 at home.
There are high hopes for Messi’s return to play in this game after being out for over two months following Copa America. This will be a crucial opportunity for the renowned player to make a significant impact in his second season with Inter Miami. However, it will not be easy as several MLS teams have strengthened their squads with European stars, such as LA Galaxy acquiring Marco Reus alongside Riqui Puig. Additionally, Los Angeles FC recently welcomed French star Olivier Giroud and goalkeeper Hugo Lloris to their team.
