With the MLS season set to come to a close for Inter Miami, there were rumors that Lionel Messi might head back to Europe on loan to maintain his match fitness.
Lionel Messi has swiftly dismissed rumors of a loan return to FC Barcelona during the MLS postseason break with Inter Miami.
Inter Miami end their MLS season on Saturday at Charlotte FC. The Herons will finish no higher than 14th place in the Eastern Conference. This rules them out of the MLS playoffs, sparking rumors of a loan move for Messi.
The 36-year-old, though, has no interest in joining another club. His winter plan is simple. He wants to play for Miami this weekend, link up with Argentina for the November international break, go on holiday in December, and then begin pre-season in January.
Addressing the rumors after scoring both goals in Argentina’s World Cup qualifying win over Peru, Messi straightforwardly stated, “No.
“I will train, I will play our upcoming match, and I will try to get here [to the national team] in the best possible way for November.
“It’s the first time that I am going to have more days off in December, with the holidays, with peace of mind, with my people. In January, I will return again to do preseason. Start from scratch and prepare as best as possible as always.”
Messi, who recently recovered from a hamstring injury, joined Inter Miami in July. The forward has enjoyed a stellar start to life at the club. He has managed 11 goals and five assists in 13 games. His performances played a pivotal role in the Leagues Cup triumph in August.
After Saturday’s season-finale in Charlotte, Inter Miami will play two friendlies in China in early November. It’s unclear if Messi will take part in these matches.
The former Barcelona captain will rejoin Argentina in mid-November for World Cup qualifiers against Uruguay and Brazil.
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