Lionel Messi limps off during MLS match, raising World Cup concerns
Lionel Messi limped off the pitch during Inter Miami’s dramatic 6-4 win against Philadelphia Union, raising serious concerns about his fitness ahead of the World Cup, reports BritPanorama.
The Argentina captain, 38, was seen clutching the back of his leg mid-way through the second half before signalling to the bench for a substitution. Messi immediately went down the tunnel after being replaced by Mateo Silvetti, intensifying worries regarding his condition.
Argentina now faces an anxious wait to determine if their star player will be fit to defend their world title. Messi is expected to undergo further medical tests in the coming days to assess the severity of the hamstring injury, which he appeared to aggravate after slipping and complaining of tightness during the match.
Inter Miami interim manager Guillermo Hoyos attempted to downplay the injury concerns following the match, suggesting that fatigue was the main reason behind Messi’s exit. “As far as I know, we don’t have a report on that yet, but he really was fatigued,” Hoyos stated. “It was fatigue. He was tired, the field was heavy, and rather than doubt, one always says not to take the risk.”
Nevertheless, the sight of Messi limping off has sent alarm bells ringing across Argentina ahead of the tournament. The former Barcelona star, preparing for his sixth World Cup, is a pivotal figure for the national team following their triumph in Qatar in 2022.
Messi enters the World Cup on impressive form, having scored 13 goals and provided seven assists in just 16 appearances this season. Argentina kick off their campaign with a Group J match against Algeria, followed by fixtures against Austria and Jordan.
Despite the high stakes, injury concerns have plagued Messi throughout this campaign. He had previously missed matches earlier this year due to a muscle strain in the same hamstring area. Inter Miami’s remarkable victory against Philadelphia Union was largely attributed to Luis Suárez, who scored a hat-trick, while Milan Iloski also netted three times for the Union in an extraordinary encounter.
As attention now shifts to Messi’s condition, the weight of expectations grows heavier. It serves as a stark reminder of the delicate balance between player longevity and the fierce demands of international competition, underscoring just how high the stakes are for one of football’s greatest talents.
