Messi and Berterame Set to Boost Inter Miami Ahead of Season Opener

omidbasir- Lionel Messi recently faced a muscle issue that kept him sidelined and affected plans for a preseason match against Independiente del Valle in Puerto Rico. Initial assessments indicated a recovery timeframe of approximately two weeks; however, the Argentine superstar has made faster-than-expected progress.

As Inter Miami gears up for their MLS Opening Day clash against Los Angeles FC this Saturday at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, Messi has returned to full training, participating actively with the team under head coach Javier Mascherano. The expectation is that Messi’s workload will steadily increase in the coming days, enabling him to contribute minutes in this eagerly awaited encounter.

In addition to Messi’s return, Inter Miami may also welcome another vital addition to their squad. Forward Germán Berterame has officially secured his work visa after facing delays that hindered his full integration with the team post-transfer.

Berterame’s clearance now allows him to make his MLS debut this weekend against LAFC, offering Mascherano an extra attacking option as the new season commences.

Both players were part of Mascherano’s South American preseason tour, although their participation in Saturday’s match was previously uncertain. Messi’s availability was in question due to ongoing muscle discomfort, which led to the cancellation of the friendly against Independiente del Valle.

Berterame, on the other hand, was unable to fully train with the team during his wait for the work visa. With the clearance now in place, the Mexican forward is set to be available for the season opener.

Historically, the two clubs have faced each other five times, with LAFC winning three encounters and Inter Miami securing two victories, with no matches ending in a draw. Three of these meetings took place in MLS competition, while the remaining two were part of the 2025 Champions Cup, where Inter Miami triumphed over LAFC.