Argentina fans were dealt a fresh dose of worry after Lionel Messi was forced off with a knock during Inter Miami CF’s wild 6-4 win against Philadelphia Union, ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The Argentinian skipper, who scored two assists in the goal frenzy, looked set for a tough battle in the second half after clutching the back of his left thigh before being walked straight down the tunnel. And as Argentina is set to take on Algeria on June 17 for their opening World Cup match, the specter of seeing Messi nursing an injury immediately raised fears of his participation in the prestigious global tournament.
There have also been mixed reports about the health of the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner. After the match, it was revealed that the Inter Miami striker was complaining of muscle fatigue in his left hamstring instead of a muscle tear or rupture.
Gastn Edul, who is a renowned Argentinian journalist, has also reported that Messi is not suffering a muscle strain and that he was being taken off as a precaution.
Manager of the MLS side, Guillermo Hoyos, also played down the incident when speaking to the media post-match, with fatigue playing a large factor in the substitution decision.
“He was tired, the field was heavy, and we didn’t want to take any risks,” the coach said after his side’s triumph.
With that, the news is not concerning for the World Cup, and Messi should be included in Argentina’s squad for the World Cup.
