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Inter Miami's Lionel Messi returns from injury and is in starting XI vs. Philadelphia Union after three-month absence

Major League Soccer

New York City FC

Inter Miami CF

Philadelphia Union

DC United

After over three-months, Lionel Messi is back to MLS action as the legendary forward returns to Inter Miami's starting XI. It is the 36-year-old's first action since June 1, a 1-0 win over St. Louis, due to a combination of playing in the 2024 Copa America and injury. Messi helped lead Argentina to the tournament final and suffered an ankle injury. The forward had to be subbed off and hasn't played since. It's a massive boost for a Miami side that is already leading the race for the Supporters Shield race by seven points prior to Matchday 32's matches Saturday.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Messi has been absolutely dominant since his arrival in MLS last summer.The Designated Player has 13 goals and 15 assists in 18 matches played across two season. Injuries have seemingly been the only thing that could slow the veteran down as last season, Miami's slim playoff hopes were derailed with Messi struggling through ailments.Now healthy and ready to lead Inter down the stretch, Messi should be one of the highlights of the upcoming MLS postseason.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

A young Inter fan seemingly made her feelings known about Messi's potential return prior to it being official. <blockquote class="twitter-tweet">No llores más que el GOAT 🐐 vuelve mañana 💗🖤 <a href="https://t.co/OJv6QBX39z">pic.twitter.com/OJv6QBX39z</a>— Inter Miami CF (@InterMiamiCF) <a href="https://twitter.com/InterMiamiCF/status/1834618829210595610?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 13, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

TOUCHING MOMENT

Messi and Inter will face Philadelphia Saturday night. Following that match, the club has just six matches left prior to the postseason.

WHAT'S NEXT FOR MIAMI

Inter Miami's Lionel Messi returns from injury and is in starting XI vs. Philadelphia Union after three-month absence | Goal.com Australia

The legendary Argentine makes his first MLS appearance since June 1 after suffering an injury in 2024 Copa America

Inter Miami&apos;s Lionel Messi returns from injury and is in starting XI vs. Philadelphia Union after three-month absence