Doubt looms over Messi’s Inter Miami debut as Hoyos weighs fitness

Guillermo Hoyos says Lionel Messi’s debut for Inter Miami against the Columbus Crew on Saturday remains doubtful, as the Argentine captain only returned to training on Wednesday, July 29 in Fort Lauderdale after Argentina’s run to the 2026 World Cup final.

Hoyos explained, “We’re talking along those lines. He arrived not long ago, so we haven’t really had the space yet to talk properly, but we’re very happy that he’s back.” The coach emphasized that no decision on Messi’s availability has been made.

Rodrigo De Paul also resumed training on Wednesday, July 29, putting him in the same uncertain position for the Saturday MLS fixture. His participation, like Messi’s, remains unconfirmed by Hoyos.

Both Argentine internationals restarted practice in Fort Lauderdale after their post‑World Cup breaks, highlighting the limited preparation time before the upcoming match.

A social‑media post by Franco Panizo noted the return of both players but pointed out that Hoyos gave no specifics about their Saturday availability. The tweet, tagged #InterMiamiCF, featured a photo from the training session.

Inter Miami have kept their winning momentum without the Argentines, beating Chicago Fire 3‑2 with Luis Suárez scoring a brace, then securing a 1‑0 victory at CF Montreal, extending their streak to six straight wins.

If Saturday proves too soon, the realistic target for Messi’s first appearance is Inter Miami’s Leagues Cup opener against Atletico San Luis on August 5, followed by group‑stage games against Monterrey on August 8 and Leon on August 12, giving Hoyos a clearer runway for reintegration.