Tata Martino has given his prediction on when Lionel Messi could return for Inter Miami after missing yesterday’s win against DC United.

The Argentine international was ruled out heading into Saturday’s clash with Messi coming off early in the second half against Nashville midweek with a leg injury, having scored and assists on the night.

With the international break on the horizon as well as the quarter-finals of the CONCACAF Champions Cup, the forward’s fitness has again become a real issue for Inter Miami heading into this key period of the season.

Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami return predicted after DC United win

SOCCER: MAR 13 CONCACAF Champions Cup - Inter Miami vs Nashville Messi Martino DC United

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And speaking to Goal after Inter Miami’s 3-1 win against DC United, Martino predicted that Messi could be back in time for the return of the Champions Cup at the start of April.

With Messi’s injury seemingly not serious and Inter Miami finally taking steps needed to rest the 36-year-old forward when needed, the Herons could have their star player back in time to face Mexican side Monterrey.

Indeed, Messi’s fitness is of the utmost important for the Florida franchise, and keeping the forward fit for next month’s Champions Cup quarter-finals has to be Inter Miami’s main goal for the coming weeks.

Martino said: “We’ll continuously evaluate what he’s doing. The objective is for him to arrive to be able to play in the quarter-finals of the CONCACAF Champions Cup. We don’t want to take a risk.”

Tata Martino will hope Lionel Messi stays for international break

Argentina v Paraguay - FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifier
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With the international break now upon us, there are real questions being asked if Messi will be named in Argentina’s squad for this month’s friendlies.

And for Martino, the Inter Miami manager will be praying that the reigning FIFA World Cup holders will give Messi a rest this international break with the forward still nursing an injury.

A rest will be beneficial for both Inter Miami and Argentina, with Messi expected to play this summer at the Copa America as well as potentially the Olympics if the forward is convinced to compete.