Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni has moved to allay fears over Lionel Messi’s fitness, describing the star’s latest injury as “not that bad” with two weeks to go before the World Cup. Messi was diagnosed with muscle fatigue in his left hamstring by Inter Miami after being substituted during their 6-4 win over Philadelphia Union on Sunday.
Scaloni told Argentinian TV station DSports on Tuesday: “Obviously we would have preferred that nothing had happened. Now one has to wait and see how it evolves and above all the new tests they are going to conduct.” The 38-year-old Messi remains Argentina’s key player as they defend the title won in Qatar four years ago.
Inter Miami manager Guillermo Hoyos said Messi was tired and the pitch was heavy, and he did not want to take a risk. The club’s statement on Monday gave little indication of the timeline for his return, saying it would depend on “clinical and functional progress”.
Argentina begin their World Cup campaign on 16 June against Algeria in Kansas City, followed by matches against Austria and Jordan. Messi has not formally confirmed his participation but is expected to make a record-equalling sixth World Cup appearance.
Meanwhile, a giant golden statue of Messi erected in Kolkata, India, is being secured with ropes as it sways in the wind. The 21-metre sculpture was unveiled during Messi’s GOAT Tour in December and will be removed.
