After nearly two months away due to injury, Lionel Messi's return to Inter Miami has not sparked the resurgence many fans hoped for. 

Although the iconic forward made a successful comeback with a victory and played the entire match, the team has since experienced a downturn, failing to secure a win in their last three MLS games.

As the regular season winds down, two significant factors may be contributing to this slump. One possibility is a shift towards a more cautious approach, as the team focuses on solidifying their playoff position. 

Another concern is the physical and mental fatigue that comes from an intense season, as Inter Miami has been striving to maintain their status at the top of the conference.

Messi’s return coincides with a period of adjustment for both him and the team. Since his departure for the Copa América and subsequent injury, the squad has had to adapt to playing without him. Now, as he re-integrates, he must find his rhythm again while his teammates work to re-establish their connection with the superstar.

Chasing the Championship

The ambition of Inter Miami is clear: they aim to capture their first MLS title. The team achieved a significant milestone last year by winning the US Open Cup, but the league championship remains the ultimate prize.

Under the leadership of coach Tata Martino, who has been instrumental in shaping this project, the focus now shifts to maximizing performance in the critical playoff phase. With the playoffs looming, Martino’s ability to navigate the team through this challenging period will be crucial in determining whether they can reclaim the form that marked the start of the season.