Lionel Messi was substituted in the 73rd minute of Inter Miami’s MLS win over Philadelphia Union on Sunday after clutching the back of his left leg and asking to come off. The injury scare comes just weeks before the World Cup kicks off in Mexico City on June 11. Miami won the match 6-4 at a rain-soaked Nu Stadium.

Is Messi injured ahead of the 2025 World Cup?

Inter Miami coach Guillermo Hoyos said it was too early to confirm an injury and suggested the substitution was precautionary. “He was tired. The pitch was heavy and when in doubt, the standard approach is always to ensure you don’t take any risks,” Hoyos said. A medical report had not been issued at the time of his post-match comments.

What did Inter Miami say about Messi’s condition?

Messi’s Argentine team-mate Mateo Silvetti said he was as uninformed as everyone else when asked about the substitution. “At that moment, we were all focused on the match. I didn’t know if it was an injury or if he was simply tired,” Silvetti said. He added that the squad would be wishing Messi well given his mindset and what is at stake.

How has Messi managed his fitness at Inter Miami?

Messi has carefully managed his workload since joining Inter Miami in 2023, with staff regularly resting him during congested fixture periods.

He has had multiple stints on the sidelines due to hamstring problems, including absences during Miami’s pre-season earlier this year. Sunday’s match was Inter Miami’s last before MLS takes a break for the World Cup.

Will Messi play at the 2025 World Cup?

Messi has not formally confirmed his participation, but is widely expected to feature in what would be a record-equalling sixth World Cup appearance. Argentina’s squad is due to be named next week, with pre-tournament friendlies against Honduras in Texas on June 6 and Iceland on June 9 scheduled before the competition begins. Argentina open their campaign against Algeria in Kansas City on June 16.

Any serious injury to the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner would be a significant blow to Argentina’s chances of defending the title they won in Qatar in 2022.