Lionel Messi Returns to Inter Miami Following FIFA World Cup 2026 Heartbreak
Lionel Messi, 39, has returned to Inter Miami CF training in Florida on Wednesday, July 29, 2026, just days after Argentina's heartbreaking 1-0 extra-time defeat to Spain in the FIFA World Cup 2026 final. The superstar prepares for Inter Miami's upcoming MLS regular season clash against Columbus Crew at Nu Stadium on August 1.
Lionel Messi, the iconic Argentine captain, has officially returned to training with his Major League Soccer (MLS) club, Inter Miami CF, on Wednesday, July 29, 2026. The 39-year-old forward's return comes swiftly after Argentina's hopes of a second consecutive FIFA World Cup triumph were dashed by a 1-0 extra-time defeat to Spain in the final held at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, on July 19, 2026. Kiki Ramos Creates History, Becomes First Haitian-Born To Play For Any Argentina Side.
Lionel Messi First Training Post WC 2026 Final
POV: Morning greetings with the squad 😁☀️ pic.twitter.com/1ZAodv1BW4
— Inter Miami CF (@InterMiamiCF) July 29, 2026
The return to the Heron's Nest sees Messi back in action as Inter Miami prepares for a crucial stretch of their MLS regular season. His presence injects a much-needed boost of star power and experience as the team aims to build on their 2025 MLS Cup victory, where Messi was named the Final MVP.
Next Fixture: Inter Miami vs. Columbus Crew
Inter Miami's next challenge is an MLS regular season clash against Columbus Crew. Fans will be eager to see Messi back on the pitch for his club side following his international duties. Leaked! FIFA President Gianni Infantino's Letter Praising Argentina After World Cup Final 2026 Brawl Against Spain.
| Opponent | Date | Time (ET) | Venue | Competition |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Columbus Crew | August 1, 2026 | 7:30 PM | Nu Stadium, Miami, FL | MLS Regular Season |
Nu Stadium, also known as Miami Freedom Park, serves as Inter Miami's home ground, boasting a capacity of 26,700. The club's schedule is packed through August with both MLS and Leagues Cup fixtures.
With Messi's return, Inter Miami will be looking to quickly regain momentum in the league. His leadership and extraordinary skill will be pivotal as the team navigates its post-World Cup schedule, aiming to make a strong push for MLS Cup contention once again.
(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 30, 2026 12:17 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).
