When Will Lionel Messi Play His Next Match in MLS?

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Lionel Messi is set to make his long-awaited return to MLS action for Inter Miami this Saturday, marking the end of a frustrating two-month layoff due to an ankle injury.

The Argentine star, who has been sidelined since mid-July, is now fully recovered and ready to step back onto the pitch, as confirmed by Miami head coach Gerardo "Tata" Martino.

In a press conference ahead of Miami's clash with the Philadelphia Union, Martino gave fans the update they were hoping for: "Messi is good to go. He trained well yesterday, and he's in our plans for the weekend match. We'll finalize the approach after today's session, but he's available."

This match will mark Messi's first appearance since suffering a right ankle injury during Argentina's Copa America final win over Colombia on July 14. The injury not only saw him miss a string of eight MLS games for his club, but also forced him out of Argentina's World Cup qualifiers earlier this month. Without Messi's magic on the field, Miami has remained strong at the top of the Eastern Conference standings, showing resilience, but his return undoubtedly injects an added spark.

Martino couldn't contain his enthusiasm about Messi's return, noting the huge impact the football legend has on the team's morale and performance. "Getting the best player in the world back is a massive boost for us, especially at a time when we've been playing well. It's a situation that fills the entire squad with confidence," Martino said.

Despite his absence, Messi's contributions in the earlier part of the season have helped propel Miami to a strong position in the standings. His imminent return will only strengthen their push as they look ahead to the upcoming matches and aim to cement their place at the top.

Inter Miami fans, eager to see Messi resume his breathtaking form, will be watching closely this Saturday as their talisman prepares to lead the team once more.