After missing the most recent international break, Messi returned to action this past weekend in the MLS clash between Inter Miami and Philadelphia Union.

Javier Mascherano’s side won 2-1 thanks to goals from Robert Taylor and Messi, while Daniel Gazdag scored a consolation goal for the visitors.

Messi started on the bench and was brought on in the 55th minute. Just two minutes later, he had his name on the scoreboard. On social media, fans quickly noticed that Messi had a new hairstyle.

In recent years, the Argentine star has often cut his hair short, but last weekend he appeared with longer hair, reminiscent of his old style.

• One fan commented: “Lionel Messi is back with his hairstyle from 2018.”
• Another wrote: “Aura is back”.
• One account added: “Why does he look even more handsome than in 2018?”.
• One person excitedly said: “He will win the 2026 World Cup!”
• One commenter commented: “He looks even more fit and in better shape now.”
• Another fan asserted: “Messi has regained his ‘AURA’, guys.”

After the match, coach Mascherano also spoke about Messi: “We wanted Leo to have some minutes. The plan was for him to play about 30-35 minutes, but with the extra time, he played a little more. However, Messi feels fine.”

“We didn’t want to risk him starting because it could have been risky. Luckily Messi finished the game without any problems, which makes us very happy.”

Inter Miami will return to action on April 3 when they face Los Angeles FC in the CONCACAF Champions Cup quarterfinals. When asked about Messi’s possible participation in the match, Inter Miami’s coach said: “The plan was for him to recover and go to Los Angeles. Today, he came on because he was ready.

He hasn’t played the full 90 minutes yet, but being on the pitch for 45 minutes (including injury time) is a positive thing. If nothing unusual happens, he will be with us.”