Lionel Messi's Injury Concern Ahead of World Cup

Lionel Messi sent a jolt of anxiety through Argentina on Sunday night, leaving Inter Miami’s wild 6–4 win over Philadelphia Union with what appeared to be a leg issue just three weeks before the World Cup kicks off.

The rain had been pouring in Miami. The pitch grew heavy, legs heavier. In the 73rd minute, Messi suddenly reached for the back of his left leg, slowed, and then stopped. Moments later, he signalled to the bench. No drama, no collapse, just a clear message: that was enough.

He walked off under his own power, head up, but with his hand still drifting toward that left leg. Then he disappeared down the tunnel, striding normally towards the locker room on what was, for now, his final MLS appearance before joining up with Argentina.

For a country about to defend a world title, every step matters.

Inter Miami coach Guillermo Hoyos moved quickly to calm the mood after the match. On a soaked surface and with his side in control of a goal-fest, he insisted the decision was rooted in caution rather than crisis.

“As far as I know, we don't have a [medical] report on that yet, but he really was fatigued,” Hoyos said. “He was tired; the pitch was heavy and when in doubt, the standard approach is always to ensure you don't take any risks.”

No scan results. No diagnosis. Just fatigue and prudence, according to the man on the touchline.

For Messi, now 38, these margins are everything. He stands on the brink of a record-equalling sixth World Cup appearance, still carrying the expectations of a nation he dragged to glory in Qatar in 2022. Back then, an inflamed Achilles at Paris Saint-Germain in November threatened to wreck his tournament before it started. He played every minute instead, and Argentina lifted their third world title.

That history lingers in the background now. He has danced on this tightrope before and found a way across.

Argentina begin their 2026 FIFA World Cup defence on 16 June against Algeria in Group J. La Albiceleste will confirm their squad later this week, with Messi again the central figure, the name everything else orbits around.

Sunday night in Miami ended with goals, rain and relief. The real verdict will come when he reports for national duty and the medical team delivers its assessment. At 38, chasing one more shot at immortality, how many more scares can he afford?