Lionel Messi set for Barcelona return as Inter Miami fail to make play-offs

Inter Miami forward, Lionel Messi could be set for a return to Barcelona after the MLS club’s hopes of reaching the playoffs ended on Saturday.

Messi failed to get on the scoresheet as they lost 1-0 at home to Cincinnati.

The 36-year-old could return to Europe to stay in shape during the MLS off-season.

MLS action won’t start again until February, once the outcome of its postseason is determined later on this month.

Speaking to reporters after the game, head coach, Tata Martino tried to play down rumours of a possible loan move to Barcelona in January.

“Is he going for fun? Maybe he’s going to visit Barcelona,” Martino said in Spanish.

“Other than that, I don’t know anything else about it.”

Messi has scored 12 goals in the combined 13 league and cup matches he played since joining Miami on a two-and-a-half-year deal in July.