Lionel Messi, Javier Mascherano make early return to Barcelona training

Lionel Messi and Javier Mascherano both returned to training today as Barcelona prepare for the new season.

The Argentina internationals, who were given time off after Argentina lost to Chile the Copa America final, missed the club's pre-season tour of the United States.

Neither player was expected back at the club until August 5, Sport reports.

The pair will undergo medical tests today along with Neymar, Dani Alves and Marc-Andre ter Stegen, before joining the squad for full training sessions on Friday and Saturday.

Barcelona, who face Sevilla in the UEFA Super Cup on August 11, play Fiorentina in their final International Champions Cup match on Sunday.