Messi returns to MLS training 10 days after World Cup final heartbreak

Lionel Messi rejoined Inter Miami's training sessions following Argentina's World Cup campaign, which concluded with a narrow defeat to Spain in the final. The match went to extra time before Spain secured a 1-0 victory, ending Argentina's hopes of consecutive World Cup titles.

Messi had been absent from the club's roster for its first two post-World Cup fixtures against Chicago and Montreal, both of which Inter Miami won. The team extended its winning streak to six matches during his absence. Additionally, Messi did not participate in Wednesday's MLS versus Liga MX All-Star Game in Charlotte, choosing instead to spend time with his father, Jorge, who the Messi family disclosed during the tournament is managing an undisclosed health condition.

The 39-year-old concluded his sixth World Cup appearance with eight goals and four assists. He became the first player to surpass Miroslav Klose's career World Cup goal record, reaching 17 goals in Argentina's second match. However, Kylian Mbappe finished the tournament with 22 goals, one more than Messi's final tally of 21.

Inter Miami currently holds a 11-2-4 record with 37 points, positioning the team two points behind Nashville SC in the Eastern Conference standings. Whether Messi will feature in Saturday's home match against Columbus Crew has not yet been confirmed. Prior to his return, speculation had circulated regarding whether Messi might retire from both international and club-level football following the World Cup.