Argentina star Lionel Messi raised further injury fears ahead of the World Cup by requesting to be substituted during Inter Miami CF’s Major League Soccer match against the Philadelphia Union on Sunday.
According to BBC Sport, the Argentina captain was replaced in the 73rd minute after appearing to grab the back of his left leg during the rain-soaked match in Miami.
Messi walked off the pitch unaided and right down the tunnel, allaying fears of a catastrophic problem.
Inter Miami coach Guillermo Hoyos later stated that the choice was precautionary rather than injury-related.
“As far as I know, we don’t have a [medical] report on that yet, but he really was fatigued,” Hoyos said after the game.
“He was tired; the pitch was heavy, and when in doubt, the standard approach is always to ensure you don’t take any risks.”
The 38-year-old has yet to formally announce his participation in the next World Cup for Argentina, but he is largely expected to return for a record-equaling sixth appearance at football’s pinnacle.
Messi has kept his workload under control since joining Inter Miami in 2023, but he has still missed time due to hamstring issues. Argentina is expected to cautiously monitor his condition before choosing its championship squad.
