Tuesday, May 26, 2026 - Lionel Messi remains at the heart of an injury scare only weeks before the World Cup after medical tests diagnosed him with muscle fatigue in his left hamstring, Inter Miami announced on Monday.
The Major League Soccer club’s update provided no clear
timetable for the Argentine superstar’s return after his abrupt exit from
Miami’s 6-4 victory over Philadelphia in the 73rd minute on Sunday. The
38-year-old icon for the defending World Cup champions grabbed the back of his
left leg and asked to come off, but appeared to be walking normally as he made
his exit to the locker room.
“After undergoing further medical tests this Monday, the
initial diagnosis indicates an overload associated with muscle fatigue in his
left hamstring,” Inter Miami said in a statement. “The timeline for his return
to physical activity will depend on his clinical and functional progress.”
That gave precious little indication about the status of the
eight-time Ballon d’Or winner as Argentina prepares to defend its crown in a
World Cup co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico that kicks off
June 11. Argentina’s first match will be five days later against Algeria in
Kansas City.
Messi has managed his workload since joining Inter Miami in
2023, with team staff regularly excusing him from matches in congested fixture
periods. MLS has already started its break for the World Cup tournament.
0 Comments