Lionel Messi Returns to Inter Miami Squad After World Cup Break, Named on Bench Against Columbus Crew

Lionel Messi has returned to Inter Miami’s matchday squad after a two-week break following Argentina’s run to the 2026 FIFA World Cup final. The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner was named among the substitutes for Inter Miami’s Major League Soccer (MLS) clash against the Columbus Crew, while Argentina teammate Rodrigo De Paul made an immediate return to the starting lineup.

Messi back after World Cup campaign

Messi had not featured for Inter Miami since Argentina’s defeat to Spain in the FIFA World Cup final on July 19. After being granted time off following the tournament, the 39-year-old resumed training with the club earlier this week and was included in the squad for Saturday’s Eastern Conference fixture.

Inter Miami head coach Guillermo Hoyos confirmed that Messi had rejoined the squad but said the club would carefully manage his return after his extended international campaign.

“We’ve been talking, in that regard. He only just got back. We haven’t really had the chance to have a proper conversation yet. We’re genuinely happy that they’ve returned and are back at the club. It’s great to see them here,” Hoyos said.

Rodrigo De Paul starts immediately

While Messi began the match on the bench, Rodrigo De Paul was named in Inter Miami’s starting XI after returning from international duty. The midfielder, who played a key role in Argentina’s journey to the World Cup final, partnered newly signed Brazilian midfielder Casemiro, who made his home debut after impressing in last week’s victory over CF Montréal.

Luis Suárez continues impressive form

Luis Suárez retained his place in the starting lineup after an outstanding run of form under head coach Guillermo Hoyos. The Uruguayan striker has scored six goals in Inter Miami’s last three matches, including the decisive penalty in the club’s 1-0 victory over CF Montréal.

Suárez has also developed a productive attacking partnership with designated player striker Germán Berterame as Inter Miami continue their pursuit of the MLS Supporters’ Shield.

MLS confirms recovery plan for World Cup players

Messi also missed the 2026 MLS All-Star Game during his recovery period. Unlike last season, however, he will not face disciplinary action.

Major League Soccer said that before the start of the 2026 season, the league and the MLS Players Association agreed that every player returning from the FIFA World Cup would follow an individual recovery and return-to-play plan determined by their respective clubs.

“Prior to the start of the 2026 season, Major League Soccer and the MLS Players Association agreed that upon a player’s exit from the World Cup competition, clubs would have individual conversations with each player to determine the appropriate rest and return to training and competition timeline,” MLS said in a statement.

Busy schedule ahead for Inter Miami

Inter Miami face a demanding run of fixtures in the coming weeks as they compete in both Major League Soccer and the Leagues Cup. Following the Columbus Crew match, the Herons will begin their Leagues Cup campaign against Atlético San Luis on August 5.

Hoyos acknowledged that managing player workload will be one of the club’s biggest challenges during the congested schedule.

“It’s very tough because of the sheer volume of matches. There’s going to be a real congestion of games over several weeks, leaving very little time to catch your breath or rest,” Hoyos said.

Messi could return to competitive action soon

Messi enjoyed another impressive FIFA World Cup campaign, scoring eight goals and providing four assists as Argentina reached a second consecutive World Cup final. He completed the full 120 minutes of the final before beginning a mandatory recovery period.

Now back in training and included in Inter Miami’s squad, Messi appears close to making his competitive return as the club enters a crucial stage of the MLS season and prepares for the Leagues Cup.

Sources: GOAL, MLS, Inter Miami CF