In just a few hours, Inter Miami is scheduled to compete against Chicago Fire FC. Regrettably, the outlook for Inter Miami’s captain, Lionel Messi, remains unfavorable as he will be unable to participate due to a severe ankle injury sustained during the Copa America final. Although his return date has yet to be confirmed, Chicago Fire has dropped potential hints regarding the anticipated timeline for Messi’s recovery.

While the Argentine will not partake in the imminent match against Chicago Fire FC, there is considerable speculation that he may return for their subsequent encounter on August 31st. Here are our reasons supporting this possibility.

Chicago Fire makes a smart move regarding Lionel Messi

It has become increasingly common for MLS teams to market their Inter Miami matches as opportunities for fans to witness one of the greatest in history, Lionel Messi. This strategy, however, has often backfired when the ex-Barca star is unable to play, prompting demands from fans seeking refunds for the high-priced tickets they purchased specifically to see the 8x Ballon d’Or winner. Currently, Chicago Fire FC is employing a similar tactic ahead of their match on August 31st, despite Messi’s ongoing injury concerns.

The club has issued a statement encouraging fans to purchase tickets with the assurance that Lionel Messi will recover and participate in the match. Additionally, Chicago Fire FC has announced a ‘Fan-First Credit Guarantee’.

Under this policy, if Lionel Messi does not play in the upcoming match against them and you bought your ticket between July 20th and August 31st then you would get $250 off two or more new 2025 Chicago Fire Season Ticket Memberships or $100 off two or more single-match tickets for any 2025 home game versus Inter Miami. Talk about La Pulga’s influence in America!

According to statements from Chicago Fire FC; it can be inferred that they expect him back before August 31st. Although the Herons has not yet officially confirmed his return date. But in the meantime, some updates have emerged on Lionel Messi’s injury from Inter Miami’s training.

Latest update on Messi and Inter Miami’s injury

Inter Miami has been in full training mode for their upcoming match against the Chicago Fire. In a positive development, Sergio Busquets is set to rejoin the team following his suspension in the previous game against Toronto. Conversely, there is concerning news regarding key defender Sergiy Kryvtsov, who will be unavailable due to a knee injury.

Now come to Lionel Messi, the captain remains absent from training as he continues rehabilitation with physiotherapists for his injury. Reports suggest that several weeks may still elapse before the 37-year-old is fit to return to the pitch.

Be that as it may, Chicago Fire is all pumped their rival Messi’s return. What do you think?