Messi trains alongside teammates and travels to Jamaica for Champions Cup: Will he play for Inter Miami?

Lionel Messi, who has been absent from Inter Miami’s starting lineup for their last three matches due to a muscle overload, returned to full training on Wednesday, fueling speculation about his potential return for the Concacaf Champions Cup second leg match against Cavalier FC in Jamaica.

Manager Javier Mascherano, in a press conference following Wednesday’s training session, confirmed that Messi will travel with the squad, though he stopped short of guaranteeing his inclusion in the starting lineup, underscoring a cautious and data-driven approach to managing the player’s workload.

Lionel Messi participated fully in Inter Miami’s Wednesday training session, displaying a positive attitude and actively engaging with his teammates. Manager Mascherano confirmed Messi’s inclusion in the squad traveling to Jamaica and stated that the decision regarding his inclusion in the starting lineup would be made closer to the game. This measured approach highlights a cautious approach, prioritizing Messi’s fitness and minimizing any potential risks associated with rushing his return.

Messi’s recent absence and upcoming fixtures

Messi’s absence from Inter Miami’s three most recent matches is due to a muscle overload and not injury. His last appearance was on February 26th, in the second leg of the Concacaf Champions Cup Round of 32 against Sporting Kansas City. Inter Miami’s upcoming schedule includes the second leg against Cavalier FC, followed by games against Atlanta United and then the crucial upcoming international matches for Argentina.

While Messi is keen to participate in the upcoming Argentinian fixtures against Uruguay and Brazil, the club will also be wanting to avoid any potential injuries and ensure his full fitness for these highly significant matches.

The return to training of Drake Callender and Maxi Falcón, who missed the previous match due to minor injuries, is a positive development for Inter Miami. Mascherano confirmed that both players will travel to Jamaica, while mentioning that Callender might start against Atlanta United given Óscar Ustari’s suspension.

Rocco Ríos Novo is expected to be available should Callender still be managing discomfort. However, Chelo Weigandt and Robert Taylor remain sidelined due to injury. This update shows the careful consideration the club gives to player fitness.