Lionel Messi’s Return to the Pitch Cut Short in Inter Miami’s Match Against Toronto FC
Fort Lauderdale, Florida – Inter Miami superstar Lionel Messi’s highly anticipated return to the pitch was short-lived after he was substituted off in the 37th minute of the team’s match against Toronto FC on Wednesday at DRV PNK Stadium.
The Argentine striker’s exit came just moments after his teammate Jordi Alba left the field due to an apparent injury. Messi, who appeared to be experiencing discomfort, took off his captain’s armband and handed it to Deandre Yedlin before making his way to the bench.
Expressing frustration, Messi leaned back in his chair on the bench and later walked to the locker room with eight minutes of stoppage time remaining in the first half. Inter Miami head coach Tata Martino commented during halftime on the Apple TV broadcast, stating, “They had to go out. We will evaluate them as the days go by.”
CNN has sought further details from the team regarding Messi’s condition and the extent of Alba’s injury.
Despite the setback, Inter Miami went on to secure an impressive 4-0 victory against Toronto FC. This match marked Messi’s first appearance since September 7, when he helped lead Argentina to a victory over Ecuador in a 2026 World Cup qualifying match.
Messi had previously missed Inter Miami’s MLS regular season match against Atlanta United last weekend. A club source explained to CNN that the decision was made to give the Argentinian World Cup winner some rest due to the number of games he has played since joining the club in July. The decision was not influenced by the turf field at Atlanta’s Mercedes-Benz Stadium.
Looking ahead, Inter Miami’s next scheduled match is against Orlando City SC on Sunday. After that, the team will host Houston Dynamo FC in the US Open Cup final on September 27.
Fans around the world eagerly await updates on Messi’s condition and are hopeful to see him back on the field soon, showcasing his incredible skills and talent once again.