Lionel Messi returns to Inter Miami duty on Saturday when the defending MLS Cup champions host D.C. United, days after an emotional farewell to international football.
The 39-year-old closed his Argentina career in a 3-0 win over Benin, scoring a penalty and adding two assists in what the club described as his final appearance for the national team. Messi retires from international duty with 208 caps, 126 goals and 70 assists.
His attention now turns to a Miami side in need of a spark. Inter enter Saturday's fixture on a difficult run - a 2-1 defeat to Columbus Crew before the international break extended their winless streak, and they had drawn three consecutive home games before that.
Despite the slump, Miami's attack remains potent: the club has scored 64 league goals, with Messi leading the scoring charts on 22. D.C. United arrive in Florida after a 3-3 draw with the Vancouver Whitecaps, with Kimito Nono scoring twice.
