Lionel Messi has denied reports that he may leave Inter Miami on loan to play for another team when the MLS season concludes. Inter Miami, who failed not make the MLS playoffs, will play Charlotte FC in its last game on Saturday.
With Messi set to play for Argentina in World Cup qualifiers in November, there have been whispers that he may return to Europe on loan. When asked if he was considering joining another club in December after Inter Miami failed to qualify for the playoffs, Messi said, “No.”
“I will train, I will play our upcoming match [against Charlotte FC] and I will try to get here [to the national team] in the best possible way for November.” Lionel Messi added.
Messi joined Inter Miami after his contract with Paris Saint-Germain expired in the summer. In his first 13 games for the MLS club, he scored 11 goals. The 36-year-old led Miami to victory in the inaugural Leagues Cup and helped them reach the U.S. Open Cup final. Messi, on the other hand, has missed five of the club’s past six games due to injury.
Tato Martino’s team ultimately failed to qualify for the MLS playoffs due to Messi’s lack of health. Their 2023 season will come to a close following a four-day doubleheader versus Charlotte. Messi is expected to return to Barcelona on loan during the MLS offseason to maintain his fitness levels. However, following his most recent outing for Argentina, the seven-time Ballon d’Or winner ruled out the notion.
The World Cup winner added: “After that, I will enjoy the holidays in Argentina. It’s the first time that I am going to have more days off in December, with the holidays, with peace of mind, with my people. In January, I will return again to do preseason. Start from scratch and prepare as best as possible as always.”
On Wednesday, Inter Miami will host Charlotte at DRV PNK Stadium. But it’s unclear whether Messi will be available after returning from Argentina duty. He is, however, expected to return to Martino’s squad when the two clubs play again three days later.
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