Lionel Messi Returning to the Pitch for Inter Miami’s Season Finale

Despite missing five of Inter Miami CF's last six matches with an upper leg injury, Lionel Messi will suit up for Saturday's season finale at Charlotte FC.

Inter Miami assistant coach Javi Morales told reporters on Friday morning that the 36-year-old will play against Charlotte.

“Having Lionel with the team is a motivation for everyone,” Morales said on Friday, per the Miami Herald's Michelle Kaufman. “We know what he signifies for the sport, having him on our team, available to play and compete is always good. We are very happy that he is back at 100 percent.”

However, one question remained heading into Saturday, would Messi start or come off the bench. Well, a little less than an hour before kickoff, the club made it official: he's starting.

Inter Miami, currently in 14th place in the Eastern Conference with 34 points, has already been eliminated from playoff contention. Upon Messi's arrival in July, the club won nine straight contests -- including a Leagues Cup title in August -- surging into contention for a long shot playoff bid.

However, the Argentinian left Inter Miami's Sep. 20 match against Toronto FC in the 37th minute due to discomfort in his right leg. Inter Miami went on to win 4-0, but since then, the club has only mustered three losses and three draws -- with Messi subbing in for 35 minutes during an Oct. 7 match against FC Cincinnati, a 1-0 loss.

He missed the other five matches completely, including Inter Miami's home finale on Wednesday, a 2-2 draw against Charlotte.

But the seven-time Ballon d'Or award winner made his return to the field for Argentina on Tuesday, scoring two goals in a World Cup qualifier against Peru. Now, he will step foot on an MLS pitch again.

“He came back in good shape, eager to play, like always, because playing is what he loves most,” Morales said. “We know what he brings everywhere he goes, an aura that inspires people. I saw images of the fans in Peru and the faces of the little kids in the tunnel with him going onto the field.

"We are privileged to have him here every day.”