Lionel Messi has been dealt a significant injury scare less than a month before the World Cup, after he was forced off with a hamstring problem during Inter Miami's 6-4 victory over Philadelphia Union on Sunday.
Injury Details
The 38-year-old Argentine star was seen grabbing his leg and was substituted in the 73rd minute, heading straight down the tunnel. This marks the first time Messi has been substituted for Miami this season, having played every minute of his previous 14 appearances, scoring 12 goals and providing seven assists.
Manager's Reaction
Inter Miami manager Mateo Silvetti expressed concern after the match, stating: "I tried to see how he was doing. I have the same doubt as everyone else." Argentina now faces an anxious wait to discover the extent of the problem, with Messi at risk of missing what could be his last World Cup.
Messi's Injury History
Messi has rarely experienced lengthy injury problems since joining the MLS club in 2023, with his longest absence being two months in the summer of 2024. However, he has dealt with hamstring issues on at least two other occasions during his three-year stint in Miami.
World Cup Implications
Messi inspired Argentina to World Cup glory in 2022, scoring seven goals, including a brace in the final against France, winning the tournament's Golden Ball. He has previously stated that he would only play at this summer's World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico if he is healthy.
Speaking last October, Messi said: "I would like to be there. To feel well and to be an important part of helping my national team, if I am there. I am going to assess that on a day-to-day basis when I start pre-season next year with Inter and see if I can really be 100%. I'm really eager because it's the World Cup. We're coming off winning the last World Cup, and being able to defend it on the pitch again is spectacular because it's always a dream to play with the national team, especially in official competitions, so hopefully God will allow me to do it once again."
