Lionel Messi once again became the center of rumors after missing Inter Miami's recent training session in the United States.

Inter Miami is in pole position for the Supporters’ Shield – all with Lionel Messi appearing in just 12 of the team’s 27 regular season matches. The Herons are essentially running away with the Supporters’ Shield title with 59 points from 27 matches played.

Lionel Messi likely to return to Inter Miami Sept. 14 after long injury layoff and is expected to be joined by a familiar goalkeeper.

Messi's recovery has been expedited by the recent FIFA international break, allowing him to focus solely on rehabilitation without the pressure of team commitments. According to journalist Gastón Edul,

According to Argentine journalist Gastón Edul, Lionel Messi is in the final stages of his recovery and could return to action soon for Inter Miami. Lionel Messi is close to completing his recovery from a right ankle injury sustained during the 2024 Copa America final against Colombia,