Lionel Messi’s availability for Inter Miami’s Major League Soccer match against the Columbus Crew on Saturday, August 1, 2026, remains uncertain.
Inter Miami specialist reporter Franco Panizo shared comments from interim head coach Guillermo Hoyos that leave supporters waiting for a final decision regarding Messi’s status.
What Guillermo Hoyos Said About Lionel Messi
When asked directly about Messi’s availability for the home match at Nu Stadium, Hoyos said:
“He got here a little bit ago so we haven’t had a chance yet to properly talk about it. But we’re happy he and De Paul are back.”
The comments confirm that Lionel Messi and midfielder Rodrigo De Paul have returned to Inter Miami following their post-2026 World Cup rest period.
However, the coaching staff has not yet completed a full assessment of Messi’s fitness and readiness, leaving his participation against the Columbus Crew uncertain.
Messi Returns After the 2026 World Cup
Messi and De Paul represented Argentina at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where the national team reached the final. Following the tournament, both players were given time to rest and reconnect with their families before returning to Inter Miami.
Messi had already begun light training activities in the days leading up to July 31. However, Hoyos’ remarks indicate that the club is prioritizing a careful evaluation instead of rushing the star back into competitive action.
Hoyos became Inter Miami’s interim head coach in April 2026 following the departure of Javier Mascherano. He also has a long-standing relationship with Messi dating back to their time together at Barcelona’s youth academy.
That familiarity could influence how Inter Miami manages Messi’s reintegration into the squad following a demanding international tournament.
What Messi’s Status Means for Inter Miami vs. Columbus Crew
Inter Miami enter the August 1 fixture near the top of the Eastern Conference and in strong recent form. The match against the Columbus Crew is an important regular-season contest before the club turns its attention to Leagues Cup action.
Messi’s presence would significantly strengthen Inter Miami’s attacking options. The Argentine has been one of the most productive players in Major League Soccer when available, and his return alongside De Paul could restore an important connection between the midfield and attack.
Inter Miami must also balance its need for points with player welfare after Messi’s demanding World Cup schedule.
As of July 31, 2026, the club has not announced an official lineup or made a final decision regarding Messi’s availability. Supporters should monitor Inter Miami’s official channels and pre-match press conferences for additional updates ahead of the scheduled 7:30 p.m. ET kickoff.
Will Lionel Messi Play Against the Columbus Crew?
The coming hours will be important as Inter Miami’s technical staff evaluates Messi’s fitness and readiness.
He could return to the starting lineup, appear as a substitute, or be held out of the Columbus Crew match entirely. Regardless of the decision, Messi’s return to the club marks an important stage of Inter Miami’s 2026 MLS season.
Further updates on Lionel Messi’s status are expected before Inter Miami hosts the Columbus Crew on Saturday, August 1.