Lionel Messi has sparked fresh concerns over his fitness ahead of the 2026 World Cup after he requested to be substituted during Inter Miami’s Major League Soccer clash against Philadelphia Union on Sunday.
The Argentina captain was withdrawn in the 73rd minute after appearing to feel discomfort in the back of his left leg during the wet-weather match in Miami. Although he walked off the pitch without assistance, he immediately headed down the tunnel, prompting speculation over a possible hamstring issue.
Inter Miami head coach Guillermo Hoyos moved quickly to calm fears, insisting the decision was purely precautionary and linked to fatigue rather than a serious injury.
“As far as I know, we don’t have a [medical] report on that yet, but he really was fatigued,” Hoyos said after the game. “He was tired; the pitch was heavy and when in doubt, the standard approach is always to ensure you don’t take any risks.”
Messi, 38, has not yet confirmed whether he will feature for Argentina at the World Cup, though he is widely expected to make a record-equalling sixth appearance at the tournament.
Since joining Inter Miami in 2023, the forward has managed his workload carefully while still battling occasional hamstring setbacks. Argentina’s technical staff are expected to closely monitor his condition in the build-up to squad selection.
The latest scare adds another layer of uncertainty around one of football’s most influential figures, even as expectations remain high that he will lead Argentina’s attack on the global stage once again.
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