- Messi Fitness Concern Leaves Argentina Worried Ahead of World Cup
- Inter Miami coach says Messi withdrawal was precautionary due to fatigue concerns
- Argentina monitoring Messi fitness closely ahead of upcoming World Cup preparations
Fresh concerns have emerged over the fitness of Lionel Messi after the Argentina captain requested to be substituted during Inter Miami CF’s Major League Soccer clash against Philadelphia Union on Sunday.
The 38 year old forward was taken off in the 73rd minute after appearing to hold the back of his left leg during the rain soaked encounter in Miami.
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EKO HOT BLOG reports that despite the scare, Messi walked off the pitch without assistance before heading straight down the tunnel, easing fears of a serious injury setback.
Inter Miami coach, Guillermo Hoyos, later dismissed suggestions of a major problem, insisting the substitution was only a precautionary measure.
“As far as I know, we don’t have a medical report on that yet, but he really was fatigued,” Hoyos said after the match.
“He was tired; the pitch was heavy and when in doubt, the standard approach is always to ensure you don’t take any risks,” he added.
Messi’s condition is now expected to be closely monitored ahead of the upcoming World Cup as Argentina national football team prepare to finalise plans for the tournament in the coming weeks.
The former FC Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain F.C. star has not officially confirmed whether he will feature at the competition, though he is widely expected to lead Argentina at the tournament.
If selected, the competition would mark Messi’s sixth World Cup appearance, potentially equalling the all time record.
Since joining Inter Miami in 2023, Messi has carefully managed his playing schedule while dealing with recurring hamstring concerns. Despite those issues, he has remained a key figure for both club and country whenever fully fit.
