Miami: Football fans across the world were left concerned after Lionel Messi appeared to suffer a suspected injury during Major League Soccer (MLS) clash between Inter Miami CF and Philadelphia Union ahead of the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Messi walked off the field during the second half after appearing uncomfortable following a free kick attempt, sparking fears over his fitness just weeks before the World Cup begins.
The Argentine superstar was substituted in the 73rd minute and was seen touching the back of his left leg before speaking to the Inter Miami bench during live play.
Messi leaves field early during MLS clash
The incident occurred during Inter Miami’s high-scoring MLS encounter against Philadelphia Union.
After showing signs of discomfort, Messi was replaced by Mateo Silvetti and headed directly down the tunnel instead of remaining near the touchline.
The moment quickly triggered concern among supporters, particularly because Messi had completed the full 90 minutes in all of his previous 13 MLS appearances this season.
No official medical confirmation regarding the nature of the issue had been released immediately after the match.
Fans fear World Cup setback
The timing of the suspected injury has raised major concerns among Argentina supporters ahead of the FIFA World Cup.
Many fans believe the upcoming tournament could be Messi’s final World Cup appearance with Argentina national football team.
Argentina is scheduled to play international friendlies against Honduras on June 6 and Iceland on June 9 before opening its World Cup campaign against Algeria on June 16 at Arrowhead Stadium.
The uncertainty surrounding Messi’s fitness quickly became a major talking point on social media after footage of his substitution went viral.
Fabrizio Romano shares update
Italian sports journalist Fabrizio Romano shared an update on social media, stating that Inter Miami’s medical staff would assess Messi’s condition.
He posted that Messi had left the pitch with a suspected injury during his final Inter Miami appearance before the World Cup and that further medical evaluation was expected.
Inter Miami coach addresses concerns
Inter Miami coach Guillermo Hoyos attempted to calm fears after the match, saying there was no confirmed injury report yet.
Hoyos suggested that Messi’s condition could be related to fatigue rather than a serious physical issue.
“As far as I know, we don’t have a medical report on that yet, but we will have one shortly,” Hoyos said after the game.
He added that the heavy pitch conditions and accumulated fatigue may have contributed to Messi’s discomfort and explained that the team preferred not to take unnecessary risks.
Inter Miami wins dramatic 10-goal thriller
Despite the concern surrounding Messi’s substitution, Inter Miami secured a dramatic 6-4 victory over Philadelphia Union in one of the highest-scoring MLS matches of the season.
Before leaving the field, Messi contributed two assists during the match.
Inter Miami had initially fallen behind 2-0 after Milan Iloski scored twice early in the game, including a penalty.
However, braces from German Berterame and a hat-trick by Luis Suárez helped Inter Miami complete a remarkable comeback victory.
Conclusion
Lionel Messi’s sudden exit during Inter Miami’s MLS clash has intensified concerns over his fitness ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. While early indications suggest fatigue rather than a confirmed injury, fans across the world will now await official medical updates on the Argentine captain.