Argentina captain Lionel Messi has suffered muscle fatigue in his left hamstring less than three weeks before the start of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, raising concerns over his fitness ahead of the tournament.
His club, Inter Miami CF, confirmed on Monday that the 38-year-old forward is dealing with “an overload associated with muscle fatigue in his left hamstring” after undergoing medical tests.
Messi was substituted in the 73rd minute of Inter Miami’s dramatic 6-4 Major League Soccer victory over the Philadelphia Union on Sunday after appearing to clutch the back of his thigh following a free kick.
In a statement, Inter Miami said: “The timeline for his return to physical activity will depend on his clinical and functional progress.”
The development has created uncertainty around Messi’s preparation and availability for the World Cup, which will be hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico from 11th of June 11 to 19th of July 2026.
Inter Miami coach Guillermo Hoyos tried to calm fears after the match, saying the issue appeared to be linked to fatigue and difficult playing conditions.
“Fatigue — he was tired, the pitch was heavy,” Hoyos said after the game.
Despite the injury scare, Messi is still expected to lead Argentina national football team at the World Cup after being named in coach Lionel Scaloni’s provisional 55-man squad earlier this month.
Argentina are scheduled to play friendly matches against Honduras and Iceland before opening their World Cup campaign against Algeria on 16th of June in Kansas City.
Messi, widely regarded as one of football’s greatest players, captained Argentina to World Cup glory in Qatar in 2022.
The upcoming tournament is expected to be his sixth World Cup appearance.
The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner has been in strong form for Inter Miami this season, recording 12 goals and several assists before the latest injury concern.
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