Recovering from a heavy blow like the one suffered in the Florida Clasico against Orlando City is no easy task. Inter Miami has already begun the process of bouncing back ahead of its next MLS challenge against LA Galaxy, the reigning league champion. While the front office continues to evaluate possible signings and departures, Javier Mascherano is working to put together his best possible starting eleven. There’s good news in the return of Lionel Messi to full training, but also a worrying development with the absence of Rodrigo De Paul.
During Wednesday’s morning practice, Mascherano was able to welcome back his biggest star. Messi had been training separately due to a minor muscle injury in his right leg. For the first time since leaving the match against Necaxa on August 2, the Argentine captain trained alongside the rest of the group.
His presence on the field suggests that a return to competitive action could happen very soon, which is exactly the boost Inter Miami needs after a challenging week.
Concern over Rodrigo De Paul’s absence
However, not all the news from training was positive. De Paul, the club’s high-profile summer signing, was notably absent from the session. His absence has raised concerns, especially if it turns out to be injury-related, as the Argentine midfielder is considered a vital piece in Mascherano’s midfield. With no official explanation provided yet, fans and media alike are left in suspense, awaiting updates on whether this is a precautionary measure or something more serious.
Between the good news of Messi’s return and the uncertainty surrounding De Paul, the squad still managed to share lighter moments during training. Players enjoyed a relaxed rondo drill with Mascherano himself joining in, briefly setting tactics aside to relive a few touches from his decorated playing career. These team-building moments could prove essential as Inter Miami gears up for one of its toughest fixtures of the season.
When is Inter Miami vs. LA Galaxy?
The highly anticipated match will be played on Saturday, August 16, 2025, at 7:30 PM ET at Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. With the reigning champions coming to town and questions hanging over the fitness of key players, the stakes couldn’t be higher for Mascherano’s side.