Lionel Messi’s Hamstring Issue Raises Concerns Ahead of Argentina’s World Cup Prep

Inter Miami announced Lionel Messi is experiencing a left hamstring issue. This comes shortly before Argentina begins its World Cup training camp. The situation adds intrigue to Argentina’s preparations. Messi underwent testing, likely including an MRI, and was diagnosed with an overload related to muscle fatigue in his left hamstring. This caused him to exit Inter Miami’s match on Sunday night.

Recovery times for such injuries vary based on severity. Inter Miami stated, “The timeline for his return to physical activity will depend on his clinical and functional progress.” Messi was substituted in the 73rd minute during the match against Philadelphia Union. Before being substituted, he appeared to stop playing and was seen holding the back of his left leg.

Despite the injury, Messi left the field without assistance and went directly to the locker room. Inter Miami won the match 6-4, with Messi contributing two assists in the first half. The second half saw heavy rain, making the field slippery. It is unclear if weather conditions influenced his exit or caused any misstep. The team cited “physical discomfort” as the reason for his substitution.

Argentina has two friendlies scheduled before the World Cup: June 6 in College Station, Texas against Honduras, and June 9 in Auburn, Alabama against Iceland. These games will be held in large college football stadiums. Argentina is part of Group J for the World Cup, facing Algeria in Kansas City on June 16, Austria in Arlington, Texas on June 22, and Jordan in Arlington on June 27.

Messi has participated in five World Cups. He won the Golden Ball as the best player in the tournaments in 2014 and 2022, leading Argentina to victory. The Golden Ball, awarded since 1982, has only been won twice by one player, Messi.

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