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Argentina Star Lionel Messi has been diagnosed with muscle fatigue in his left hamstring following medical tests, Inter Miami announced on Monday, raising fresh concerns ahead of the World Cup.
The MLS club said in a statement that the Argentine captain underwent further assessment after limping out of Sunday’s 6-4 win over Philadelphia in the 73rd minute.
Messi, 38, appeared to signal discomfort in his left leg before being substituted, although he was later seen walking unaided as he left the pitch.
Inter Miami said tests indicated “muscle overload associated with fatigue in the left hamstring,” adding that his return would depend on how he responds in the coming days.
“After undergoing further medical tests this Monday, the initial diagnosis indicates an overload associated with muscle fatigue in his left hamstring,” Inter Miami said in a statement.
“The timeline for his return to physical activity will depend on his clinical and functional progress.”
The club did not provide a timeline for recovery, leaving uncertainty over his availability for upcoming matches and Argentina’s pre-World Cup preparations.
Messi, who leads defending champions Argentina, is expected to feature in what could be a record sixth World Cup appearance when the tournament begins on June 11 in the United States, Canada and Mexico.
Argentina open their campaign five days later against Algeria in Kansas City.
The forward has carefully managed his workload since joining Inter Miami in 2023, with the club often resting him during congested fixtures.
