When will Lionel Messi return after missing 11 Inter Miami games? Update on recovery from ankle injury as MLS outfit ease Argentina superstar back into training

The latest update on Lionel Messi, who has missed 11 games at Inter Miami, suggests that he could return from injury by the end of August.

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WHAT HAPPENED?
The Herons released their talismanic captain for Copa America duty in the middle of June. They saw him damage his right ankle in the final of that competition, as Argentina successfully defended their continental crown on U.S. soil.
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THE BIGGER PICTURE
Inter Miami have picked up eight wins without Messi, but have also exited the Leagues Cup. No date has been pencilled in for the 37-year-old to return to action. AS are, however, reporting that the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner is taking in individual training sessions.
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DID YOU KNOW?
His fitness is being assessed on a daily basis, with no risks about to be taken. The ligaments in his ankle need time in which to fully recover, with Inter Miami eager to avoid suffering any setbacks. That means Messi will not be rushed back.

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WHAT NEXT?
Tata Martino’s side will be in action again when facing Supporters’ Shield rivals FC Cincinnati on August 24. Messi may not make that fixture, but he could be back in contention “by the end of the month”, per AS. That would still give him plenty of time in which to aid a quest for ultimate MLS Cup glory.

WHAT HAPPENED?