Lionel Messi has not kicked a ball for Inter Miami since the start of June, yet the forward’s return is now around the corner.
Tata Martino announced on Saturday that Messi is likely to feature in Inter Miami’s next MLS game against the Philadelphia Union on September 14th, with the forward set to remain in Florida over the international break.
Messi returned to training last week with the attacker now close to making a full comeback after twisting his ankle in the Copa America final, keeping the Argentine captain out of action since mid-July.
And Inter Miami defender Ian Fray has now shared how Inter Miami players are thinking about Messi’s return.
Fray excited about ‘the best player in the world’ finally returning
Speaking to the press after Saturday’s 4-1 win against the Chicago Fire, the 22-year-old defender revealed that Inter Miami have missed Messi in recent weeks, with Fray excited for the reigning Ballon d’Or holder to return to action.
With Inter Miami already qualified for the MLS play-offs and now leading the Supporters’ Shield race by seven points, Messi’s return has come at the perfect time for the Herons heading into the post-season.
And for Fray, the young fullback seems excited to have Messi back in the matchday squad, with the Argentine handing Inter Miami the boost they need to go for a domestic double this year.
Fray said when asked about Messi’s return: “You guys all know that Messi is the best player in the world, so of course we miss him when he’s not on the field, but we’re happy to have him back soon. We have the best player in the world on our team, so you never get used to it.”
Inter Miami need to ensure Messi stays fit for the rest of the year
Messi’s fitness problems have been a major problem for Inter Miami this year, with the 37-year-old missing over half of the Herons’ games due to injuries and other physical issues.
Yet with Messi soon back and Inter Miami able to take their foot off the gas, the Florida franchise need to ensure they’re doing all they can to keep their star player fit for the remainder of the year.
Messi will be key in the play-offs, and Inter Miami can’t afford to lose the Argentine at this stage of the season given just how good the forward is for Tata Martino’s side.