Messi Returns to Matchday Squad as Substitute for Miami Clash

A month after Argentina's defeat in the World Cup final, Lionel Messi has finally returned to Inter Miami's matchday squad. Last Saturday local time, the Argentine superstar was named among the substitutes for the MLS home clash against Columbus Crew, waiting for his chance to come on. It marked his first inclusion in a club matchday squad since the national team's final loss.

Looking back at the World Cup campaign, Messi contributed eight goals and four assists, setting multiple tournament records and leading his side to a second consecutive final. However, in the ultimate showdown on July 19 at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, Argentina lost 0-1 to Spain after a grueling extra-time battle. Messi played the full 120 minutes in that match, giving everything but ultimately falling short of lifting the trophy.

Returning alongside Messi is his Argentina and club teammate Rodrigo De Paul. In the final, De Paul played 70 minutes in midfield for Argentina, and in the weekend league match, he was named in Inter Miami's starting lineup. Notably, De Paul will be partnered in midfield by newly signed Brazilian Casemiro, who will also make his debut in front of the home fans.

After the World Cup concluded, both Messi and De Paul went into rest-and-recovery mode, causing them to miss Inter Miami's previous two MLS matches against Chicago Fire and CF Montréal. As both were named to the All-Star Game roster, the club was spared any potential punishment for their absence. Earlier this week, the duo returned to the training ground and took part in full team practice.

Inter Miami head coach Guillermo Hoyos revealed in a Friday interview that he had communicated with the players about Saturday's matchday arrangements. "We've been in constant communication," Hoyos said. "They've just returned and we haven't had a chance to discuss in depth, but their importance to the club is undeniable. We sincerely welcome them back."

The last time Messi donned the Inter Miami jersey was on May 24, when the team hosted Philadelphia Union at home. That was also his final club match before the World Cup. Right now, the team's primary objective is to secure a win in Saturday's MLS clash, before shifting focus to the Leagues Cup campaign — starting with a home match against St. Louis City, followed by matches against Monterrey and Club León, as they look to advance from the group stage.