Lionel Messi, captain of Inter Miami CF and the Argentina national team, suffered an injury during his side’s Major League Soccer clash against Philadelphia Union, raising concerns among football fans with just 18 days remaining before the start of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Messi left the pitch in the 73rd minute after requesting to be substituted, having appeared uncomfortable. The incident immediately worried Argentina supporters, who are hoping he will lead the team in their attempt to defend the World Cup title won in 2022.
The match ended in a thrilling 6-4 victory for Inter Miami over Philadelphia Union, becoming one of the highest scoring fixtures in MLS history. Although Messi did not score, he provided two assists during the game.
Inter Miami have not yet confirmed the exact nature of Messi’s injury or how long he may be sidelined. However, interim manager Guillermo Hoyos stated that the injury does not appear to be too serious, offering reassurance to both fans and the Argentina national team.
The injury comes at a time when Messi had been enjoying excellent form, having scored five goals and provided seven assists in his previous five matches, further demonstrating his importance to Inter Miami.
Messi is expected to join Argentina’s training camp ahead of the 2026 World Cup, where the team will first play friendly matches against Honduras and Iceland. Argentina have been drawn in the same group as Algeria, Austria and Jordan.
The 38-year-old forward has made 198 appearances for Argentina, scoring 116 goals, cementing his place among the greatest footballers in the history of the sport.
