Inter Miami CF has given an update on Lionel Messi following an injury scare just weeks before the FIFA World Cup. Messi had to leave the field during a recent MLS match due to physical discomfort after taking a free kick. Concerns arose when he did not stay on the bench but went straight to the locker room with medical staff.
After the match, Inter Miami manager Guillermo Hoyos mentioned that Messi felt tired playing on a challenging pitch. The MLS later reported that initial tests showed an overload related to muscle fatigue in Messi’s left hamstring. The timeline for his return to activity will be based on his recovery progress.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is scheduled to take place in the United States, Mexico, and Canada from June 11 to July 19. Argentina, the defending champions, will be in Group J with Algeria, Austria (June 22), and Jordan (June 27). Messi, although not confirmed for his sixth World Cup, is expected to lead Argentina alongside Rodrigo De Paul.
Messi, who has nearly 200 caps for his country, played a crucial role in Argentina’s 2022 World Cup victory. With 26 World Cup appearances, he has scored 13 goals and provided 8 assists. Argentina, three-time World Cup winners, will aim to advance in the expanded 48-team 2026 World Cup format.
