Argentina, World Cup fans on tenterhooks as Messi ...
Get the Sports newsletter
Daily sports — scores, transfers, the storylines from the leagues you actually follow. Free.
- Lionel Messi exited the Inter Miami vs Philadelphia Union match in the 70th minute after feeling discomfort in the upper left thigh, requesting a substitution and being replaced by Mateo Silvetti.
- Inter Miami confirmed Messi left the field without additional assistance and walked directly to the locker room, indicating no immediate medical intervention.
- Messi said his participation in the 2026 World Cup will be assessed on a day‑to‑day basis during preseason with Inter Miami, after expressing a desire to be fit and contribute to Argentina.
- Rodrigo De Paul and Messi have been undertaking double daily training sessions and a two‑a‑day schedule to prepare for the World Cup, while coaches Javier Mascherano and Guillermo Hoyos have been carefully managing Messi’s workload.
Why it matters: Argentina’s World Cup hopes now face uncertainty as Messi’s injury puts his participation in doubt, while Inter Miami loses a marquee attraction for upcoming matches.
