Lionel Messi Suffers Hamstring Issue Ahead of World Cup Training
Inter Miami confirmed that Lionel Messi is dealing with a left hamstring issue. This development comes just a week before Argentina starts its training camp for their World Cup title defense. The situation adds complexity to Argentina’s preparation plans.
On Monday, Messi underwent testing, likely including an MRI, although specifics were not shared. The diagnosis was “an overload associated with muscle fatigue in his left hamstring.” This condition prevented him from completing Inter Miami’s match on Sunday night.
Recovery timelines for such injuries vary. “The timeline for his return to physical activity will depend on his clinical and functional progress,” Inter Miami stated. During the match against the Philadelphia Union, Messi was substituted in the 73rd minute after showing signs of discomfort, such as grabbing his left leg. He left the field unaided and headed to the locker room. Despite Messi’s early exit, Inter Miami won 6-4, with Messi contributing two assists in the first half.
Heavy rain during the second half left the field slippery. It remains unclear if this contributed to Messi’s discomfort or decision to leave. The team stated he was substituted due to “physical discomfort.”
Argentina’s friendlies leading up to the World Cup include games against Honduras on June 6 in College Station, Texas, and against Iceland on June 9 in Auburn, Alabama. These matches will take place in college football stadiums with a combined capacity of approximately 180,000. Argentina, in Group J for the World Cup, will play Algeria in Kansas City on June 16, Austria in Arlington, Texas, on June 22, and Jordan, again in Arlington, on June 27.
Messi has participated in five World Cups and won the Golden Ball as the tournament’s best player in 2014 and 2022, making him the only player to receive the award twice since it was introduced in 1982.