Fresh off the Leagues Cup round of 16 disappointment, Inter Miami is back to basics. The MLS action awaits Herons as in just a few hours, they take on their arch-rivals Cincinnati at the Chase Stadium. While Tata Martino’s side would be hoping for a positive result to maintain their dominance in the Eastern Conference, the question looms whether Lionel Messi is playing tonight.

Each matchday, the banners of “Where is Messi?” pop up in the stands as everyone desperately seeks the answer. Well, why wouldn’t they? La Pulga has been incommunicado with the soccer ball ever since he returned from the Copa America 2024 final with a win and an unfortunate ankle injury. Unfortunately, it remains the same story for Tata Martino’s side as Lionel Messi won’t be playing tonight against Cincinnati.

Miami will be on their own on the pitch once again and shall fight without their crucial chess piece. Notably, while the 37-year-old was on international duty, the Florida-based club did play the Ohio side. That, sadly, didn’t turn out to be a good affair for Inter Miami as they were thrashed 6-1 by Pat Noonan’s side. Such a scoreline will automatically affect the confidence of the players as they gear up for a similar contest today.

Additionally, the David Beckham-owned club also carries the baggage of their previous 2-3 loss against Columbus in the Leagues Cup last 16 round, missing out on the chance to defend their title. Despite Messi’s absence, Martino’s side performed impressively, securing the top spot in the Eastern Conference with 53 points, but their lead remains at risk.

There’s just a 5-point difference between Inter Miami and Cincinnati. While a win would do wonders, a loss would make the race for the top spot more difficult for the pink club. This also makes Messi’s return even more crucial. Speaking of which, when can we expect him back?

Here’s when to expect Lionel Messi back in action for Inter Miami

Argentinian journalist Hernán Claus recently provided an update on Lionel Messi’s return. Being left out of the upcoming September friendlies for Argentina, the 8x Ballon d’Or winner is currently focused on his rehabilitation. He is working on strengthening his ankle and progressing carefully. Although the Barcelona legend hasn’t rejoined group training yet, he’s expected to be back with his teammates soon.

Claus hinted at when fans might see Messi in action again, saying, “There’s hope he might play some minutes against Chicago Fire on August 31, but the key target is the September 14 match against Philadelphia Union.” He added that Inter Miami is being patient, aiming to have Messi fully fit for the playoffs, which begin in late October, with the ultimate goal of winning the MLS Cup.

In the meantime, the David Beckham-owned club is likely to reintroduce their star player cautiously. Messi still has time to rest and recover, as he’ll play a crucial role in turning Inter Miami’s title aspirations into reality.