Lionel Messi is poised to make his return to the Inter Miami lineup this Saturday against the LA Galaxy at Chase Stadium, barring any unforeseen setbacks. Inter Miami coach Javier Mascherano delivered the encouraging news on Friday, stating that Messi has been training with the team since Wednesday and is expected to be available for selection.

Messi had been sidelined with a right leg muscle injury sustained earlier this month during Inter Miami's Leagues Cup match against Necaxa. He was removed from the match in the 11th minute after colliding with a defender. The injury forced him to miss the subsequent Leagues Cup match against Pumas UNAM and the Florida Derby against Orlando City, which Miami lost 4-1.

Mascherano emphasized Messi's progress, stating, "Leo is fine; in fact, he's been training with the team since Wednesday". He further added, "Beyond the fact that we still have today's training session, we believe that if nothing unusual happens, he will be called up for tomorrow's match".

The timing of Messi's potential return is crucial for Inter Miami, as they enter a critical stretch of games. Following the match against the LA Galaxy, Inter Miami will face Tigres UANL in the Leagues Cup quarterfinals on Wednesday. Messi's presence will be vital as the team aims to advance in the tournament.

Despite the Galaxy's position at the bottom of the Western Conference standings, Mascherano cautioned against underestimating them. He acknowledged that their league standing might not accurately reflect the quality of their players and noted their improvement in recent months. The Galaxy also advanced to the Leagues Cup quarter finals. Defender Gonzalo Lujan echoed this sentiment, stating, "More than the results, we know it will be a tough opponent. We have to be more focused from the start and not allow any early goals".

Inter Miami is currently sixth in the Eastern Conference, with 42 points from 23 matches. A win against the LA Galaxy would be crucial as they aim to climb the standings and secure a spot in the playoffs. The team will also be looking to bounce back from their recent defeat against Orlando City.

The match against the LA Galaxy is also "Unified Night," presented by Florida Blue. The event will feature a pre-match game between the Inter Miami CF Unified Team and the LA Galaxy's Unified team. Fans can also enjoy a Fan Zone takeover, with photo opportunities featuring the club's 2023 Leagues Cup trophy. Florida Blue members will have the chance to meet an Inter Miami player after the match, and the 2025 Special Olympics Unified Team will be recognized during halftime.

With Messi's possible return, Inter Miami hopes to regain its winning form and continue its pursuit of success in both the MLS regular season and the Leagues Cup. The game kicks off at 7:30 p.m. ET at Chase Stadium.