Lionel Messi has been diagnosed with left hamstring fatigue after leaving Inter Miami’s MLS match against Philadelphia Union, raising fresh fitness concerns ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
Messi Faces Fresh Injury Concern Before 2026 World Cup
Lionel Messi has been diagnosed with muscle fatigue in his left hamstring, Inter Miami confirmed on Monday, sparking concern over his fitness just weeks before the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The Argentine superstar was forced off during Inter Miami’s dramatic 6-4 Major League Soccer victory over Philadelphia Union on Sunday after appearing to feel discomfort in his left leg.
Messi left the pitch in the 73rd minute after grabbing the back of his leg and asking to be substituted. Although he appeared to walk normally as he headed toward the locker room, Inter Miami later confirmed that medical tests showed signs of hamstring overload.
Inter Miami Gives Update On Messi’s Condition
In a statement, Inter Miami said further medical checks revealed an overload linked to muscle fatigue in Messi’s left hamstring.
The club, however, did not give a specific date for his return to training or match action.
According to Inter Miami, Messi’s recovery timeline will depend on how he responds clinically and physically in the coming days.
That uncertainty has left Argentina fans waiting anxiously, especially with the World Cup set to begin on June 11 in the United States, Canada and Mexico.
Argentina Watching Closely Ahead Of World Cup Defence
Messi’s fitness is a major talking point as Argentina prepares to defend the World Cup title it won in Qatar in 2022.
Argentina’s first match of the tournament is scheduled for June 16 against Algeria in Kansas City.
The national team is also expected to play pre-World Cup friendlies against Honduras on June 6 and Iceland on June 9 before beginning their campaign.
Argentina’s squad list is expected to be announced next week, making Messi’s latest injury update even more significant.
Messi Yet To Confirm Final World Cup Decision
Messi has not officially confirmed whether he will play at the 2026 World Cup, but he is widely expected to be part of Argentina’s squad if fully fit.
If he features in the tournament, it would mark a record-equalling sixth World Cup appearance for the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner.
Since joining Inter Miami in 2023, Messi has carefully managed his workload, with the club often resting him during tight fixture schedules to reduce fitness risks.
MLS Break Gives Messi Time To Recover
Major League Soccer has now entered a break for the World Cup, which could give Messi valuable time to recover before Argentina’s campaign begins.
For now, Inter Miami and Argentina will continue to monitor his progress before any final decision is made on his return to full physical activity.
Messi remains one of the most important players for both club and country, and his fitness will be closely watched in the days leading up to the World Cup.
