Inter Miami coach Gerardo Martino provided an update on Lionel Messi's recovery, stating that while there is no specific return date yet, the Argentine star is expected to be back before the end of the MLS regular season.

"He's not training with the group yet, but he is out on the field working with the fitness coaches. He's progressing well. It was predictable that he wouldn't be with Argentina (for the September World Cup qualifiers) because he's not ready to play yet, but we're doing well," Martino told the media.

"There isn't an estimated date (for his return). We need to see how he feels as he continues to add training sessions," Martino added, emphasizing that Messi will be back in action before the MLS playoffs begin.

The final league match is scheduled for October 19. The play-in games (eighth vs. ninth) will take place on October 23, with the first round of the playoffs starting on October 26.

Messi has been dealing with an ankle injury since the Copa América final on July 14.

Due to his absence during the continental tournament and his injury, Messi has not played for Inter Miami since June 1.