Messi expected to return to Inter Miami in late July or early August

Published Jul 23, 10:37 AM UTC

Following Argentina's heartbreaking 1-0 extra-time loss to Spain in the 2026 World Cup final, Lionel Messi is taking a mandatory rest period before returning to Inter Miami. The 39-year-old scored eight goals and four assists in seven World Cup matches. He has returned to his hometown Rosario to recharge, skipping MLS fixtures and the All-Star Game. According to ESPN, Messi is expected to rejoin Inter Miami in late July or early August. His first potential appearance could be the home MLS match against Columbus Crew on August 1, or alternatively the Leagues Cup fixture against Atlético de San Luis on August 5. Meanwhile, Inter Miami continued their winning form without him, securing a 3-2 victory over Chicago Fire with goals from Luis Suarez and academy product Preston Plambeck.