When is Lionel Messi back for Inter Miami? Projected MLS return date after World Cup 2026 break

When is Lionel Messi back for Inter Miami? Projected MLS return date after World Cup 2026 break originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

Lionel Messi came agonizingly close to a second World Cup title, but fell just short as Argentina lost to Spain in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final on July 19.

The 39-year-old played nearly every single minute of Argentina's run through the tournament, logging an insane 740 minutes during the six-week-long competition, as Argentina went to extra-time in three different matches.

Messi now needs a rest, as he will get to have to recuperate following the grueling tournament. With the back end of the MLS season coming up, including the Leagues Cup and the playoffs, Messi will need to get himself in top shape for the stretch run.

The Sporting News details how long Messi will be sidelined as he waits to recover from his World Cup adventure before stepping back on the field for his MLS club Inter Miami.

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When is Lionel Messi back for Inter Miami?

It's not confirmed right now when Lionel Messi will be back to MLS action for Inter Miami. It's expected that he will not be back until early or mid August.

The 39-year-old will take some time off after the World Cup, which saw Messi lead Argentina to the 2026 final.

Messi is granted a 21-day rest period after the end of his World Cup journey by FIFA and FIFPRO, which would see him able to miss out until at least August 9 without any repercussions, but he could get even longer if Inter Miami approve, or he could return earlier if he decides.

MORE: Why Inter Miami is being investigated by MLS for tampering

Will Lionel Messi play in the MLS All Star game?

Lionel Messi will reportedly skip the 2026 MLS All-Star game, as will his Argentina and Inter Miami teammate Rodrigo De Paul.

The All-Star game will be played on July 29, which falls well within the 21-day window for Messi to take a rest.

Previously, Messi was suspended one match per MLS rules for skipping the 2025 All-Star game, as he did not have league approval for his absence and it was not injury related.

Will Lionel Messi play vs. Chicago Fire?

Lionel Messi will not be in the Inter Miami squad to face the Chicago Fire on July 22.

The match, which will be Robert Lewandowski's debut after Chicago's match against Thomas Muller and the Vancouver Whitecaps on July 16 was postponed, takes place just three days after the end of the World Cup final, meaning Messi has no chance of being involved.

He should, however, be back for the return fixture at Soldier Field on September 9, as long as he is fit to participate.

Inter Miami MLS schedule 2026

Inter Miami have two more MLS matches before the league pauses again to allow the Leagues Cup to play out.

The Herons will play their first Leagues Cup match on August 5, and the final is played on September 6.

* Leagues Cup
** Subject to change pending Inter Miami's progression in Leagues Cup