Messi Makes Triumphant Return as Inter Miami Prepares to Battle LA Galaxy

Inter Miami returns to MLS competition on Saturday evening at their home venue as they face the reigning MLS Cup champions LA Galaxy in what will be only their third meeting in franchise history.

Though Miami has stabilized their league performance following a challenging season opener, the Galaxy continues to face difficulties and remains at the Western Conference bottom with merely 16 points across 25 matches.

Nevertheless, despite their similar league positions, both teams advanced to the Leagues Cup quarterfinals and are presently managing multiple competitions during an intense summer schedule.

With Lionel Messi expected to rejoin head coach Javier Mascherano's roster, here's the potential Herons formation ahead of the 7:30 pm ET kickoff.

Inter Miami Predicted Lineup vs. LA Galaxy (4-2-3-1)

GK: Oscar Ustari—Ustari made his injury comeback in a 4–1 defeat to Orlando City last weekend and seeks a redemptive display against the Galaxy.

RB: Noah Allen—The emerging defender represents one of the remaining homegrown talents on the roster following goalkeeper Drake Callender's midweek transfer to Charlotte FC.

CB: Gonzalo Lujan—Lujan expressed determination before the fixture after last weekend's Orlando City defeat, stating to media, "We had a week to prepare, we are ready, and tomorrow we're going to play a great game."

CB: Maxi Falcón—Though encountering some disciplinary issues this campaign, Falcón has maintained his status as one of Miami's most reliable center-backs.

LB: Jordi Alba—A steady force along the left flank, Alba has endured some of the most demanding minutes for the Herons this season.

DM: Sergio Busquets—While Jordi Alba and Lionel Messi have been sidelined with injuries, Busquets has remained remarkably fit and dependable in the defensive midfield role.

DM: Rodrigo De Paul—The ex-Atlético Madrid midfielder missed one training session this week for visa processing, enabling him to travel internationally as an Inter Miami player.

LW: Tadeo Allende—The Argentine wide player has netted seven times in 20 appearances this campaign, though hasn't scored in MLS action since a June victory over CF Montréal.

AM: Lionel Messi—The 38-year-old will probably operate in a deeper midfield position following Federico Redondo's club departure.

RW: Telasco Segovia—With seven strikes in 23 games, Segovia faces expectations to enhance his offensive contribution in the season's closing phase.

ST: Luis Suárez—Following improved form in the Leagues Cup, Suárez aims to expand upon his five goals and 10 assists in MLS competition.