Lionel Messi has rejoined Inter Miami's training sessions, returning to work with the Major League Soccer club 10 days after Argentina's defeat to Spain in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final. The club shared footage on social media showing the Argentine captain training alongside longtime teammate Luis Suárez.
Following Argentina's 1-0 extra-time loss in the July 19 final, Messi spent time with his family in his hometown of Rosario. Shortly after the match, the 39-year-old admitted the disappointment of missing out on consecutive World Cup titles would take time to overcome, describing the defeat as a painful experience.
Messi has yet to confirm whether he intends to continue his international career, with speculation surrounding his future for Argentina continuing after the tournament. During his absence from club duty, Inter Miami head coach Guillermo Hoyos stressed that both Messi and fellow Argentina midfielder Rodrigo De Paul deserved time to recover physically and mentally after the demands of the World Cup.
Major League Soccer granted Messi and De Paul permission to miss this year's MLS All-Star Game in Charlotte because of their recent World Cup commitments. The exemption meant Messi avoided the disciplinary action he received after missing the exhibition match the previous year without an approved reason.
Inter Miami have not confirmed when Messi will make his competitive return. The club is scheduled to face Columbus Crew on Saturday before opening its Leagues Cup campaign next Wednesday against Mexican side San Luis, with supporters awaiting confirmation of whether the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner will feature.
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