Messi returns to MLS training 10 days after World Cup final heartbreak

Lionel Messi returned to Inter Miami training on July 30, 2026, ten days after Argentina suffered a 1-0 extra-time defeat to Spain in the World Cup final. The 39-year-old two-time defending MLS MVP had missed Inter Miami's first two post-World Cup matches against Chicago and Montreal, both of which the club won, extending their winning streak to six games. Messi's absence had fuelled retirement rumours following Argentina's tournament exit.