Lionel Messi's Anticipated Return Faces Setback Amid Recovery from Ankle Injury

1/7: Lionel Messi's return from injury may face further delay due to receiving another setback during his recovery from an ankle injury sustained in the Copa America 2024 final. / Image: AP

2/7: The 37-year-old has not played competitively since then but is progressing towards full fitness by training with teammates, despite recently training separately due to a flu-like illness. / Image: AP

3/7: While the illness confined Messi to indoor training, his ankle appears to be improving, hinting at a potential imminent return to the field. / Image: AP

4/7: Argentine journalist Gaston Edul suggests Messi could feature in one of Inter Miami's upcoming matches, with the team leading the MLS Eastern Conference by 8 points. / Image: AP

5/7: Inter Miami's next fixture against Philadelphia on 15 September may be too early for Messi, but the match against Atlanta United on 19 September could provide ample time for his full recovery. / Image: AP

6/7: Messi's return could see him either coming off the bench or starting the game, considering his pivotal role for the team, having scored 14 goals and provided 11 assists in 15 matches this year. / Image: AP

7/7: Despite his absence, Inter Miami have secured a spot in the MLS playoffs and aim to compete for more silverware after being eliminated from the Leagues Cup. / Image: AP