Is Lionel Messi Injured? Argentina Receives Concerning News Before World Cup
Argentina captain Lionel Messi walked off the pitch during Inter Miami CF's dramatic 6-4 win over Philadelphia Union on Sunday night, creating concern just weeks before the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Messi was substituted in the second half after appearing uncomfortable and holding the back of his leg during the match.
The match turned into an entertaining contest after Philadelphia took an early lead. Inter Miami responded well, with Luis Suárez scoring a hat-trick to help his side take control of the game. Messi was active throughout before being substituted in the 73rd minute.
Despite the concern over his injury, Miami managed to hold on for the win at home.
Lionel Messi Injured: What Happened to Inter Miami Star During Inter Miami vs Philadelphia Union?
Messi appeared to suffer a muscle problem during the second half against Philadelphia. Footage showed the 38-year-old reaching toward the back of his leg before signaling toward the bench for a substitution.
Messi was standing near the sideline waiting to come off while play continued around him. He was then substituted, and fans will now hope it's nothing serious ahead of the World Cup.
Reports suggested the issue could involve his hamstring, although the club has not confirmed the exact nature of the problem.
The timing of the injury has naturally raised concern in Argentina, with the World Cup approaching quickly.
Lionel #Messi was just standing by the sideline waiting to be subbed off with the team playing the ball around him & not even trying to pass to the GOAT..He's subbed off, let's hope he is not injured..#MLS#Lemoncitylivepic.twitter.com/p8bYAoD8na
— Xavier Guerrero (@XGLAVOZ) May 25, 2026
Messi has dealt with hamstring issues earlier in 2026 as well. Back in February, Inter Miami confirmed that he had suffered a left hamstring strain during preseason preparations.
As of now, there has been no official medical update from Inter Miami or the Argentina national team regarding the seriousness of the latest injury.
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This story was originally published May 24, 2026 at 7:10 PM.