Messi Set to Return for Inter Miami’s Final Regular Season Match
Head coach Javier Mascherano has confirmed that Lionel Messi will be on the field for Inter Miami CF as they prepare for their last game of the 2025 regular MLS season against Nashville SC this Saturday. The captain is looking to secure the prestigious Golden Boot award.
Messi comes into this match after playing for Argentina against Puerto Rico on Tuesday night at Chase Stadium.
Mascherano commented, “Yesterday, Messi and Rodrigo De Paul trained with our squad and performed well. Today, they will complete the training session with us.” He added, “Messi participated on Saturday, and since De Paul had limited minutes in the match against Venezuela, both players haven’t experienced heavy fatigue during this international break.”
“They remained here after the last match, which allowed them to rest without the need for travel. Typically, a four-day gap between games is beneficial for recovery,” Mascherano explained. “We’ll assess everything again after today’s training.”
Almost all players are available for the upcoming match, with the exceptions being David Ruiz and Allen Obando, who are both recovering from injuries.
This match against Nashville is crucial, as it offers Messi the chance to clinch the Golden Boot for 2025 and assists Inter Miami in securing home-field advantage for the playoffs.
Currently, Messi leads the Golden Boot standings with 26 goals, while Los Angeles FC’s Denis Bouanga follows closely behind with 24 goals.
Since joining MLS in the summer of 2023, Messi has yet to win the Golden Boot, despite coming close in 2024. In addition to his goal-scoring prowess, he also leads the league this season with 18 assists, enhancing his candidacy for the league MVP title.
Mascherano has expressed his belief that there is “no doubt” Messi deserves the MVP award, which would make him the first player ever to win it consecutively after achieving it in 2024.
Mascherano stated, “There is no questioning Messi’s status as the league MVP. Even with fewer games played compared to others, his impact on the team has been immense. While statistics are vital, Messi’s influence transcends numbers, showcasing his significance on the pitch and his ability to engage fans.”
Inter Miami has already secured their place in the playoffs and will learn about their Round One opponent following the final regular-season match this Saturday night.
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