FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. — Inter Miami’s star forward Lionel Messi is ready to make his comeback from a right leg injury in Saturday’s highly anticipated match against the Los Angeles Galaxy, head coach Javier Mascherano announced on Friday.
The 38-year-old Argentine, sidelined since sustaining the injury during a Leagues Cup victory over Necaxa on August 2, missed the team’s last two matches but resumed training earlier this week.
“Leo is in good condition,” Mascherano stated. “He’s been back with the squad since Wednesday, and barring any unexpected issues, we expect him to be included in tomorrow’s lineup.”
Messi, an eight-time Ballon d’Or recipient, has been a dominant force in the MLS this season, tying Nashville’s Sam Surridge for the league’s Golden Boot with 18 goals. In addition to his scoring prowess, the forward has contributed 10 assists in 17 MLS appearances.
Inter Miami (12-5-6, 42 points) currently holds sixth place in the Eastern Conference, sitting six points clear of the playoff line. The Herons have also advanced to the Leagues Cup quarterfinals, adding to the stakes of Messi’s return.
