By: Sandipan Ghosh Image credit: X
Argentine World Cup-winning legend Lionel Messi's MLS team Inter Miami's ongoing season will end this October, as the team is out of contention for the 2023 MLS playoffs.
Although Messi returned to the Miami team against FC Cincinnati last Saturday (October 7), Miami suffered an away 1-0 defeat that ended their last hope for any chance to qualify for the MLS playoffs.
While Messi has a lengthy offseason before the new season, beginning in February 2024, there are rumors of his possible loan to Spanish giants Barcelona in the upcoming winter transfer.
Talking about Messi's possible return to Barcelona, Miami head coach Gerardo Martino has clarified that it is only a rumor.
Martino said, "Is he going for fun? Maybe he's going to visit Barcelona. Other than that, I don't know anything else about it."
Messi is an asset for Inter Miami. Although the Argentine joined the MLS side last July, he is the joint second-most goal-scorer for Miami this season with 11 goals in 13 appearances.
Since last September, Messi has been going through some fitness issues as he missed out on Miami's four consecutive matches before his appearance against the hosts Cincinnati.
So, Messi is unlikely to return to Barcelona soon. While his contract with Miami will end in December 2025, the team is dreaming of a strong and historic experience in the next season.
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