Lionel Messi Struggles with Hamstring Fatigue During Inter Miami’s Victory

Inter Miami star Lionel Messi experienced muscle fatigue in his left hamstring when he requested to be substituted during a 6-4 victory over the Philadelphia Union, the club announced on Monday.

“After undergoing further medical tests this Monday, the initial diagnosis indicates an overload associated with muscle fatigue in his left hamstring,” Inter Miami said in a statement. “The timeline for his return to physical activity will depend on his clinical and functional progress.”

Messi was seen grabbing at his upper thigh before exiting the game in the 73rd minute, heading straight to the locker room.

This setback comes just a week before Argentina is set to begin preparations for its World Cup title defense at a training camp in Kansas City, Kansas.

It remains uncertain whether Messi will miss any time because of the overload. The Major League Soccer season has now entered its World Cup break, meaning Messi, who is 38, could return to training with Argentina or might need additional rest before matches commence.

Argentina is scheduled to face Algeria on June 16 in Kansas City, Missouri, marking their first group-stage match. Messi and the team will also compete against Austria and Jordan as part of Group J.

Messi played a crucial role in leading Argentina to its first World Cup since 1986 and its third overall four years ago in Qatar, where he earned the Golden Ball as the tournament’s top player.