Inter Miami confirmed that Lionel Messi was replaced in their latest MLS match due to muscle fatigue affecting his left hamstring.
Initial concerns suggested the 2022 World Cup winner might have suffered an injury during Inter Miami’s 6-4 victory over Philadelphia Union.
However, the MLS club clarified that medical tests revealed only “an overload associated with muscle fatigue.”
“The timeline for his return to physical activity will depend on his clinical and functional progress,” Inter Miami stated.
After setting up two of Miami’s four first-half goals on Sunday, Messi clutched his leg in the 73rd minute following a free-kick and was promptly substituted in the team’s final game before the World Cup break.
The 38-year-old headed straight down the tunnel but appeared to be walking without difficulty.
“He was genuinely fatigued,” Miami coach Guillermo Hoyos commented post-game when asked about Messi’s condition. “He was tired; the pitch was heavy, and when in doubt, the standard approach is always to avoid risks.”
Messi has not officially confirmed his intention to represent defending champions Argentina at the World Cup, which begins on 11 June.
Nevertheless, he is widely expected to make a record-equalling sixth World Cup appearance, with the tournament co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Argentina’s squad is anticipated to be announced next week, with their opening match against Algeria scheduled for 16 June.
Since joining Miami in 2023, the Barcelona icon and eight-time Ballon d’Or recipient has managed his workload carefully but has still endured spells on the sidelines due to hamstring issues.
He has recorded 12 goals and eight assists in 14 MLS games this season, trailing only by one in both categories, having led the league with 29 goals and 19 assists in 28 games during the 2025 regular season.