Lionel Messi Takes Scheduled Break After World Cup, Missing Match Against CF Montreal

Inter Miami supporters will have to wait a bit longer to see Lionel Messi play.

The Argentine superstar has been left out of the matchday squad again, but there is no new injury worry. Rather, Messi is now on a scheduled break after Argentina’s trip to the 2026 FIFA World Cup final. The break was arranged between Inter Miami, Messi and FIFA player welfare guidelines to give the veteran forward enough time to recover before he returns to MLS action.

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Lionel Messi Is Resting After the 2026 FIFA World Cup

Messi was in all of Argentina’s knockout games as they reached the World Cup final, where they were defeated by Spain. Following a busy summer of international soccer, Inter Miami and the club captain reached an agreement that he would sit out MLS action for the time being.

Messi and teammate Rodrigo De Paul are both taking advantage of the player recovery period negotiated between FIFA and FIFPRO, which calls for a minimum of 21 days’ vacation after a completed season or major international tournament. Clubs can handle that time on their own, but Inter Miami has decided to focus on the long-term health of two of its biggest stars.

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When Will Lionel Messi Return?

Inter Miami has not announced a specific return date, but there is increasing hope that Messi will return to the team soon after his recovery period. The club has stressed that the move is precautionary and has nothing to do with a new injury.