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Lionel Messi is reportedly expected to recover in time for Argentina’s World Cup opener after initial tests showed no muscle tear following his Inter Miami exit.
Lionel Messi (AP)
Lionel Messi appears to have avoided a major injury scare just weeks before the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner has been heavily relied upon by Inter Miami this season, missing only one of the club’s 15 MLS matches while contributing 12 goals and eight assists.
The Argentine captain sparked panic among fans after asking to be substituted during Inter Miami CF’s 6-4 win over Philadelphia Union in MLS action on Sunday.
Messi was replaced by Mateo Silvetti in the 73rd minute after appearing uncomfortable while holding the back of his leg. The 38-year-old then walked straight down the tunnel, immediately triggering fears of a hamstring injury.
No Muscle Tear Reported
Thankfully for both Inter Miami and Argentina, the early signs appear positive.
Inter Miami coach Guillermo Hoyos said after the match that there was no official medical report yet and suggested the issue was linked more to fatigue than a serious injury.
“As far as I know, we don’t have a report on that yet, but he really was fatigued,” Hoyos said.
Argentine journalist Gaston Edul later reported that Messi does not appear to have suffered a muscle injury and had requested to come off as a precaution to avoid aggravating the discomfort.
Further reports from Argentina have since backed that claim.
According to ESPN Argentina and Oleinitial tests reportedly showed inflammation in the posterior thigh muscle but no tear.
World Cup Return Timeline
Messi is now expected to recover within 10 to 14 days, which would likely leave him fit in time for Argentina’s World Cup opener against Algeria national football team on June 16.
However, his availability for Argentina’s final two warm-up matches remains uncertain.
The reigning world champions are scheduled to face Honduras on June 6 before taking on Iceland three days later.
Messi is expected to join up with the national team camp next week.
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