Lionel Messi left Inter Miami’s Major League Soccer (MLS) match against Philadelphia Union on Sunday with an apparent leg injury, just weeks before the start of the World Cup.
Argentine superstar Messi was substituted in the 73rd minute after he grabbed the back of his left leg and asked to come off.
The 38-year-old icon went straight into the tunnel after leaving the match, which Miami ultimately won 6-4.
There was no immediate word from Inter Miami on the exact reason for Messi’s substitution.
However, any significant injury to the five-time Ballon D’Or winner would deal a huge blow to Messi and Argentina’s hopes of defending its World Cup title in the United States, Canada and Mexico.
The tournament kicks off on June 11 in Mexico City, with Argentina playing the opening match against Algeria in Kansas City five days later.
Sunday’s Inter Miami match was the last before MLS takes a break ahead of the World Cup.
Messi has not yet formally confirmed his intention to play at the World Cup, but he is widely expected to return for what will be a record-equalling sixth appearance in the final.
Argentina’s squad will be announced next week, and the South American giants will head to the United States shortly afterwards for pre-World Cup friendlies against Honduras in Texas on June 6, followed by a match against Iceland on June 9.
Published on May 25, 2026
