As Inter Miami gears up for their Leagues Cup semifinal clash against Orlando City SC on Wednesday, all eyes are on the availability of Lionel Messi. The Argentine superstar's presence is highly anticipated, especially after he missed the quarterfinal victory over Tigres due to a muscular injury aggravated in a brief appearance against the Los Angeles Galaxy in mid-August. This absence followed two prior matches he had already missed, including a significant loss to Orlando City.

Inter Miami assistant coach Javier Morales stated that Messi's status will be a game-day decision, but was optimistic, saying, "I imagine he'll be in the squad at least". Morales indicated that both Messi and Jordi Alba completed training and will be monitored before a final decision is made. He called Messi completing his training workout "super positive".

Messi's potential return could not come at a more crucial time for Inter Miami. His presence was instrumental in the team's Leagues Cup triumph in 2023, marking the club's first-ever trophy. With 20 goals and 10 assists in all competitions, Messi is a strong contender for another Most Valuable Player award. The team heavily relies on him, having failed to win four of the five MLS games played without him. However, they have managed to win both Leagues Cup matches in which he didn't play.

Despite the uncertainty surrounding Messi's availability, Inter Miami enters the semifinal with renewed confidence. The game will be played at home, adding significance for the fans eager to see Messi back in action. The match against Orlando City is seen as the final hurdle before a potential final, which could further solidify the club's recent history and Messi's influence on the team.

However, Orlando City has proven to be a tough opponent for Inter Miami, winning both matches against them this season with a combined score of 7-1. In their most recent encounter, Orlando City secured a 4-1 victory earlier this month, a game where Messi was absent.

Regardless of Messi's participation, Orlando back Alex Freeman said that his team will maintain the same mentality: "to go out there and be the best and try and win". Inter Miami will also be without head coach Javier Mascherano, who received a red card in the Tigres match.

If Messi and Alba are both available, Inter Miami would gain valuable experience for the crucial encounter. The winner of the Miami-Orlando match will face either the Los Angeles Galaxy or Seattle Sounders in the final. The stakes are high, with the opportunity to win another trophy and solidify their status as one of the most competitive clubs in the region.