Leo Messi returns to Inter Miami training ahead of MLS opener vs LAFC after injury scare that forced friendly cancellation
Leo Messi has returned to training in a significant boost for Inter Miami ahead of their MLS season opener against LAFC this weekend.
Concern had been growing over the Argentine’s availability after an injury forced the club to cancel last week’s scheduled friendly against Independiente del Valle.
With just days to go before the new MLS campaign kicks off, uncertainty surrounded the fitness of the league’s biggest star.
Inter Miami had remained silent on Messi’s condition for six days, offering no fresh medical update following the initial setback. That silence only heightened fears that the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner could miss the showpiece curtain-raiser.
The grind continues. Season opener ahead ⚡️ pic.twitter.com/KtTsnrz4Fx
— Inter Miami CF (@InterMiamiCF) February 18, 2026
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However, on Wednesday (February 18), the club posted images from training – and Messi was front and centre.
Crucially, the 36-year-old was not pictured doing light recovery work on the sidelines. Instead, he was actively involved in drills, on the ball and competing directly with a teammate. The images strongly suggest that Messi is not merely nearing a return but could be in contention to start against LAFC.
The injury scare had disrupted Inter Miami’s preparation schedule, with the cancellation of the Independiente del Valle friendly seen as a precautionary move to avoid aggravating the issue. The club opted against releasing detailed information, but the absence of further updates had led to mounting speculation.
Now, with Messi back in full training, optimism has returned.
The timing could hardly be more important. Inter Miami’s opener against LAFC is one of the marquee fixtures of the MLS calendar, pitting two of the league’s biggest brands against each other to launch the 2026 campaign.
All eyes will be on Messi as he looks to begin another season in the United States in style. LAFC, meanwhile, will relish the opportunity to test themselves against the World Cup winner in front of a national audience.
As MLS seeks another statement start to its season, the prospect of Messi leading the line adds star power to what is already shaping up to be a blockbuster opener, a meeting of headline names and championship ambitions.
