Lionel Messi has rejoined Argentina’s national team training after being granted rare permission to play for Inter Miami in their 4–0 victory over Atlanta United on Saturday, keeping the MLS club in contention for home advantage in the upcoming postseason.
The 38-year-old captain was left out of Argentina’s 1–0 win over Venezuela on Friday at Hard Rock Stadium, Miami, with head coach Lionel Scaloni confirming he made the decision to rest his captain.
However, in an extraordinary move, Scaloni released Messi to feature in Miami’s crucial MLS fixture, their final regular-season match at Chase Stadium, which will be replaced by Miami Freedom Park in 2026.
“It was pretty straightforward yesterday before the game. I spoke with Scaloni, and he told me he was going to release him, that he wasn’t going to use him,” said Inter Miami coach Javier Mascherano.
“I spoke with Leo about letting him play today; there’s not much more to it. He didn’t intend to play him yesterday; he wanted to see something else.”
Mascherano added,
“Since he didn’t play against Venezuela, we saw the opportunity to use him. Leo was clearly willing, even though he trained all week with the national team.”
“We know he’s totally special, unique and you could see that today. He helped us win. He scored, which was important for him and the team.”
Read more: Lionel Messi Casts Doubt on 2026 World Cup
Messi Leads Miami’s Final Game at Chase Stadium
Messi marked his brief club cameo with a brace and an assist, leading Miami to a commanding 4–0 victory.
He opened the scoring with a trademark curling strike into the top-left corner, scoring his 25th goal of the season, before assisting Jordi Alba, who netted a sublime lob to make it 2–0.
Alba, who is set to retire at the end of the 2025 MLS campaign, received an emotional tribute after the final whistle.
“It’s been a beautiful journey. This club has been a surprise in many ways. Seeing messages from former managers and teammates was emotional,” emotional Jordi Alba said.
“I’m proud of everything I’ve achieved. Now it’s one more game against Nashville and then the playoffs, hopefully, we can win it before I finally rest.”
Veteran striker Luis Suárez volleyed home the third goal in the 61st minute, while Messi sealed the rout with a late finish, his 26th of the season, putting him two goals clear of LAFC’s Denis Bouanga in the MLS Golden Boot race.
Argentina Awaits Their Captain’s Return
Following the match, Messi immediately rejoined the Argentina camp ahead of their next friendly against Puerto Rico on October 14, also at Chase Stadium.
Scaloni hinted that Messi could return to the lineup for that fixture:
“Let’s hope Messi can be there on Tuesday. We’ll see how things unfold in the coming days,” the Argentina boss said.
Argentina confirmed Messi’s return in a statement:
“The match will serve as part of the preparation for upcoming commitments and will allow the technical staff to fine-tune details.”
“Leo’s return generates great anticipation and promises a spectacular atmosphere for this new international challenge.”
Miami’s Push for Postseason Glory
Inter Miami’s victory keeps them tied on points with FC Cincinnati in second place in the Eastern Conference, as they prepare for their final regular-season fixture away to Nashville.
The Philadelphia Union have already clinched top spot in the East and the Supporters’ Shield for most regular-season points.
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