Messi injury UPDATE! Inter Miami's captain magnificent returns to training

After missing two crucial matches due to a muscle injury sustained during the Leagues Cup clash against Necaxa, Lionel Messi was seen training with his teammates on Wednesday.

In a clip that surfaced on social media, the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner was spotted with the first team at the Florida Blue Training Centre on Wednesday morning, August 13.

 This return has sparked a wave of optimism, suggesting that his time on the sidelines is nearing an end.

 While his exact return date remains unknown, his presence on the pitch is a massive boost for a team that has clearly struggled in his absence.

Inter Miami’s most recent match, a disappointing 4-1 loss to Orlando City, was a stark reminder of the void left by their captain.

 As the team looks to recover from that defeat, having their talisman back in the mix will be vital.

Despite the excitement, Inter Miami’s head coach Javier Mascherano is taking a measured approach to Messi's return.

 According to a report by beIN SPORTS, Mascherano is in "no rush" to bring the team captain back into the starting lineup.

‘Leo is okay, but obviously it would be crazy to take the risk of taking him to Orlando because of all that is ahead,’ he said.

‘We are optimistic that he will soon return with us.’

 The priority is ensuring Messi is fully fit and ready for the Leagues Cup quarterfinal clash against Tigres next Wednesday. 

This cautious strategy is understandable, as Inter Miami’s title ambitions in both MLS and the Leagues Cup depend on the 38-year-old’s health. 

The club is clearly keen to avoid any setbacks that could see their key player sidelined for a longer period.

While the Leagues Cup is a major focus, Inter Miami's position in the MLS Eastern Conference is also on the line. 

The defeat to Orlando City saw them drop to sixth place with 42 points, though they still hold three games in hand. 

As they prepare to host LA Galaxy on Saturday, a team that has also been underperforming and is currently 15th in the Western Conference, the pressure is on to get back to winning ways.

 This upcoming fixture could see Messi make a cameo appearance, but it’s more likely he'll be saved for the high-stakes match against Tigres.