Lionel Messi returned to the pitch for Inter Miami on Wednesday, making a substitute appearance in the team's match against Leon. His return comes shortly after the death of his father, Jorge Messi, who had served as his agent since Messi was 14 and was by his side when he captained Argentina to World Cup victory in 2022.
Messi had been unavailable for Inter Miami's 2-1 loss to Monterrey in the Leagues Cup on Saturday. His presence was missed as the team was eliminated in the opening phase of the competition, a fate they had not experienced since the Leagues Cup expanded in 2023, the same year Messi joined the team and they won the trophy.
Despite the personal loss, Messi made himself available for the crucial match against Leon. His father had urged him to play in one last World Cup, even as his health declined, according to Messi's own statements.
Inter Miami midfielder Yannick Bright described Messi's return as "incredible," emphasizing the support he and his teammates aimed to provide their captain during this difficult time. "It shows how much he cares," Bright commented. "When I saw he was here, all I was thinking about was to give my 150% for him."
Leon coach Javier Gandolfi acknowledged Messi's unique status, stating, "He is a human being that is different to the rest. Today he demonstrated once more what he's made of."