Inter Miami's Lionel Messi trains alongside teammates as return appears to be closer

Lionel Messi trained alongside his teammates on Wednesday in a session open to the media, signaling that his return to the field is near after missing two matches due to a muscle injury suffered against Necaxa in the Leagues Cup.

The notable absence at Florida Blue Training Center was Rodrigo De Paul, who was not sidelined for physical reasons but to finalize a visa process.

The Herons missed Messi last Saturday in their 4-1 loss to Orlando City, a defeat that dropped them to sixth in the Eastern Conference with 42 points, though they still have three games in hand compared to other MLS clubs.

Messi could return as early as Saturday against LA Galaxy, although head coach Javier Mascherano has stressed he's in no rush to bring his star back, aiming to have him fully fit for Wednesday’s Leagues Cup quarterfinal clash against Tigres.

Saturday's match will be the first encounter between LA and Miami since the Galaxy won the title. However, barring something unforeseen, it won't be a preview of this year's potential MLS Cup. LA haven't lived up to expectations and are currently sitting 15th in the Western Conference. 

The Herons will await Messi's status ahead of hosting LA Galaxy on Saturday as they look to get back to winning ways.