Inter Miami coach Guillermo Hoyos stated that conversations regarding Lionel Messi's return to action are pending, following his participation in the 2026 World Cup with Argentina. Messi and Rodrigo De Paul rejoined Inter Miami training this week after playing in the World Cup final on July 19.

"We've been talking, in that regard. He only just got back. We haven't really had the chance to have a proper conversation yet," Hoyos commented. Messi led Argentina to the World Cup final with eight goals and four assists. He and De Paul missed recent Inter Miami matches and were excused from the MLS All-Star game.

Inter Miami faces a demanding schedule with upcoming matches against the Columbus Crew and in the Leagues Cup, starting August 5. Hoyos acknowledged the intensity, noting the "sheer volume of matches" and "congestion of games" will be challenging. Inter Miami previously won the 2023 Leagues Cup and reached the 2025 final.