Lionel Messi Set to Make Impactful Return for Inter Miami vs LA Galaxy After Injury Layoff

Lionel Messi is poised to make his return to the Inter Miami lineup on Saturday night as the team faces off against the LA Galaxy in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. After missing the last two matches due to a mild thigh injury, Messi resumed training on Wednesday, and head coach Javier Mascherano confirmed that the star forward will be available for selection barring any unexpected issues.

Inter Miami Seeks Reinforcement Following Heavy Defeat

Inter Miami currently holds a record of 12 wins, 5 losses, and 6 draws, accumulating 42 points, but the squad experienced a tough setback in their previous match with a 4-1 loss to Orlando City. The team is counting on Messi’s return to help improve their performance as they look to regain momentum in the season. Goalkeeper Oscar Ustari, who recently came back from injury, had a challenging game against Orlando, conceding four goals. This led Miami to trade longtime goalkeeper Drake Callender to Charlotte FC, with Callender having appeared in only three games this year after recovering from sports hernia surgery.

Support Expressed for Former Goalkeeper Drake Callender

Inter Miami midfielder Benjamin Cremaschi commented on Callender’s situation, saying,

“I want to wish him all the best in this new stage. I know this year has been difficult for him due to the injuries and the surgery,”

—Benjamin Cremaschi, Inter Miami midfielder

LA Galaxy Struggling to Find Form Despite Tournament Success

The LA Galaxy are enduring a difficult season with only 3 wins, 15 losses, and 7 draws, totaling 16 points, holding the lowest win and point totals in <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/soccer/mls/”>MLS this year after their championship run last season. However, their recent performance in the Leagues Cup has been promising, with a strong 4-0 victory over Santos Laguna. Coach Greg Vanney expressed satisfaction with the team’s energy during that match, stating,

“It was what I encouraged them to do,”

and added,

“There’s one team out there tonight who was playing for something, and we wanted to see that in our energy, our intentions, and it was maybe the best first half we’ve had all season.”

—Greg Vanney, LA Galaxy coach

Galaxy Aim to Overcome League Challenges Before Facing Miami Again

While LA Galaxy’s Leagues Cup run shows promise, their MLS campaign remains difficult. They suffered a 4-0 defeat to the Seattle Sounders last Sunday, marking their longest winless stretch since their last victory against D.C. United on July 12. As they prepare to meet Inter Miami again in the quarterfinals of the Leagues Cup, the Galaxy will be eager to end their lack of wins in league play.

Anticipation for Messi’s Influence on Upcoming Match

Messi’s anticipated return injects optimism into the Inter Miami squad as they face a team also looking to improve its fortunes. His presence on the field could be a crucial factor in Miami’s effort to rebound from recent setbacks. Meanwhile, both teams have their sights set on the Leagues Cup quarterfinals, where their rivalry will continue in a high-stakes environment.