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Xtra Time Web Desk: Lionel Messi returned to group training with Inter Miami on Wednesday, participating in a limited capacity nearly six weeks after spraining his right ankle and leaving the Copa America final. However, it remains uncertain when the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner will play again for Inter Miami, which currently boasts the best record in Major League Soccer this season. Messi was also not selected by Argentina for their World Cup qualifiers in early September.

Inter Miami is set to visit Chicago this Saturday, followed by a league match against Philadelphia on September 14. Should Messi not participate in these matches, he will have additional time to continue his rehabilitation before potentially returning to action.

"To see him on the field is great," Inter Miami goalkeeper Drake Callender said after Wednesday's workout. "I know he's been getting treatment every single day, training every single day. He's dealt with things before. He's been there, done that, and he's still doing it at the highest level. To see him recoup from the kind of injury we saw at Copa America and be available for us this season, it goes to show the quality of care we have here."

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When asked about Messi's potential return, Callender emphasized the impact, stating, "To be able to get him back, it's going to be huge."

Inter Miami coach Tata Martino commented on Messi's progress, explaining, "There were specific drills that we devised that would allow him a certain level of participation, but he still does not have medical clearance to play." Martino added that the timetable for Messi's return remains unchanged, with expectations that he will play before the end of the regular season on October 19 against the New England Revolution.

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Messi, 37, has been sidelined since July 14 after suffering a high ankle injury during the Copa America final for Argentina against Colombia. Despite his absence, Messi has had an impressive season with Inter Miami, scoring 12 goals and providing 13 assists in 12 MLS games. He has missed 14 league matches, including the last eight while playing for Argentina and recovering from his injury.