Messi suffers fitness scare ahead of World Cup

By Enitan Abdultawab

Argentina captain Lionel Messi raised concerns about his fitness ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after requesting a substitution during Inter Miami’s Major League Soccer match against Philadelphia Union on Sunday.

The 38‑year‑old forward was taken off in the 73rd minute after appearing to clutch the back of his left leg during a wet encounter in Miami.

Inter Miami coach Guillermo Hoyos said the decision was precautionary rather than indicative of a serious injury, noting that the eight‑time Ballon d’Or winner was exhausted by the demanding conditions.

“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.”

Messi, who led Argentina to World Cup victory in Qatar in 2022, has not yet confirmed whether he will play in the upcoming tournament, though he is widely expected to return for a record‑equalling sixth World Cup appearance.

The tournament will begin on 11 June in the United States, Canada and Mexico, with Argentina scheduled to face Algeria in their opening match on 16 June.

Since joining Inter Miami in 2023, Messi has carefully managed his playing time amid recurring hamstring injuries, though he has still spent periods sidelined.

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