Lionel Messi’s Hamstring Issue and Its Implications for Argentina

Inter Miami announced that Lionel Messi is dealing with a left hamstring problem. This news emerges just days before Argentina’s training camp starts for its World Cup title defense.

Messi underwent testing on Monday, likely including an MRI, though specific procedures were not confirmed. The diagnosis revealed muscle fatigue and overload in his left hamstring, preventing him from completing Inter Miami’s last match against Philadelphia Union.

Recovery times for hamstring issues vary based on severity. Messi’s return to physical activity will depend on his clinical and functional progress, as stated by Inter Miami.

Messi was substituted during the 73rd minute in Sunday’s match after showing signs of discomfort. He walked off unaided and went directly to the locker room. Despite the setback, Inter Miami, the MLS champions, secured a 6-4 victory with Messi contributing two assists in the first half.

The match experienced heavy rain, making the field slippery. However, there’s no information on whether the weather affected Messi’s departure from the game. Inter Miami cited “physical discomfort” as the reason for his substitution.

Argentina has two friendlies scheduled before the World Cup in June: against Honduras on June 6 in College Station, Texas, and Iceland on June 9 in Auburn, Alabama. These will be played in college football stadiums with large capacities.

For the World Cup, Argentina is in Group J, facing Algeria in Kansas City on June 16, Austria in Arlington, Texas, on June 22, and Jordan back in Arlington on June 27.

Messi has participated in five World Cups and received the Golden Ball award twice: in 2014 and again in 2022, when he led Argentina to victory. He remains the only player to have won this accolade twice, which has been awarded since 1982.