Lionel Messi has returned to the Argentina national team after missing the match against Venezuela due to club commitments in Major League Soccer (MLS).
The 38-year-old had been called up by Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni to play for the country against Venezuela and Puerto Rico.
However, Messi was left out of the squad for the 1-0 win over Venezuela on October 10 at the Hard Rock Stadium.
He played for Inter Miami in their match against Atlanta on October 11.
Inter Miami needed Messi’s presence for their penultimate MLS match of the regular season as the club pushes for a higher spot in the Eastern Conference table – a request exceptionally approved by its national team.
Earlier this week, Miami coach Javier Mascherano said the team needs Messi and would welcome him if he can play between two friendlies against Argentina on Saturday, but also said he does not understand whether or not that is possible.
Messi was impressive in Miami’s 4-0 win, scoring the first goal. The game was the team’s final at Chase Stadium, as the Herons will move into their new home, Miami Freedom Park, in 2026.
Lionel Messi is expected to play again at Chase Stadium on October 14 in a match between Argentina and Puerto Rico after returning to the national team.
“The match will serve as part of the preparation for upcoming commitments and will allow the coaching staff to refine the details,” Argentina said in a statement.
“Leo’s return raises great expectations and promises a spectacular atmosphere for this new international challenge.”
