Inter Miami confirmed that Lionel Messi is dealing with a left hamstring issue. This development arises just a week before Argentina begins its training camp for the World Cup defense.
Messi underwent testing on Monday. Although specifics weren’t disclosed, it likely involved an MRI scan. He was diagnosed with an overload linked to muscle fatigue in his left hamstring. This condition prevented him from completing Inter Miami’s match on Sunday night.
The recovery time from such injuries varies based on severity. “The timeline for his return to physical activity will depend on his clinical and functional progress,” Inter Miami stated. Messi was substituted in the 73rd minute of the match against the Philadelphia Union. Prior to his substitution, he appeared to grab at his left leg.
Despite walking off unaided to the locker room, Messi had already contributed with two assists in the first half. Heavy rain during the second half made the field slippery, but it’s uncertain if he slipped or if conditions contributed to his early exit. The team cited “physical discomfort” as the reason for substitution.
Argentina has two friendlies planned before the World Cup. These matches are on June 6 in College Station, Texas, against Honduras, and June 9 in Auburn, Alabama, against Iceland. Both will take place in college football stadiums with a combined capacity of around 180,000.
For the World Cup, Argentina is in Group J. Their group stage matches include games against Algeria in Kansas City on June 16, Austria in Arlington, Texas, on June 22, and Jordan in Arlington on June 27.
Messi has appeared in five World Cups, earning the Golden Ball as the tournament’s best player in 2014 and 2022. He is the only player to have won this award twice since its inception in 1982.
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