Leo Messi is back and eager to play, as he demonstrated in Inter Miami’s previous match against Philadelphia Union. The game ended with a 3-1 result in favor of the Pink team, with a spectacular performance from the Argentine, who managed to score a brace.

Inter Miami fans are anxious to know whether their star player will be available for the next matches against Atlanta United and NYCFC. Following his injury, there’s been much talk about giving the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner some rest, either due to his age or his physical condition.

Will he be available?

Well, his own coach, Tata Martino, said on Tuesday in front of the media that Messi will indeed be available for his team against Atlanta United and against NYCFC.

However, he also made it clear that the club’s intention is not to overexpose him on the field to avoid any potential injuries. Therefore, we will be able to enjoy the Argentine’s play, but not for the full 90 minutes of the matches.

“Leo is fine, he ended the game well. Tired, obviously. It’s the first 90 minutes in a long time, but it ended very well. He is going to travel to both games. He is available but there are three games this week with travel included, so we have to see it day by day” said Martino after their game against Philadelphia United

He is going to travel to both games. He is available but there are three games this week with travel included, so we have to see it day by day

Tata Martino on Messi’s availability

Key moment for Inter Miami

At the moment, Inter Miami is comfortably at the top of the Eastern Conference standings, with 62 points and a 10-point lead over their closest rival, FC Cincinnati, who are second with 52 points. If they win these upcoming matches, Inter Miami would be the favorite to take the title in the final series of the competition.

Winning the league would mean their first MLS title in their short history, making them the youngest club to win a league title in MLShistory.