Argentina captain Lionel Messi has raised fresh fitness concerns ahead of the upcoming World Cup after requesting to be substituted during Inter Miami CF’s Major League Soccer encounter with the Philadelphia Union on Sunday.
According to BBC Sport on Monday, the 38-year-old forward was taken off in the 73rd minute after he appeared uncomfortable and held the back of his left leg during the rain-affected fixture in Miami.
Despite the concern, Messi was able to leave the pitch without assistance before heading directly into the tunnel, suggesting the issue may not be serious.
Inter Miami coach Guillermo Hoyos later downplayed fears of an injury, explaining that the substitution was mainly a precaution due to fatigue.
“As far as I know, we don’t have a [medical] report on that yet, but he really was fatigued,” Hoyos said after the game.
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“He was tired; the pitch was heavy and when in doubt, the standard approach is always to ensure you don’t take any risks.”
Although Messi has not officially announced whether he will represent Argentina at the forthcoming world cup, he is widely expected to feature in what could become his sixth appearance at the tournament, equalling the all-time record.
Since joining Inter Miami in 2023, the veteran forward has managed his playing time carefully while also dealing with recurring hamstring-related fitness setbacks.
Argentina’s coaching staff are expected to monitor his condition closely before finalising the squad for the competition.