Inter Miami has rescheduled its friendly match in Puerto Rico, originally set for 13/2, to 26/2. The decision comes after Lionel Messi sustained an injury, with the club prioritizing local fans' opportunity to see the star player. The reigning MLS champions will first return to the USA for their 2026 season opener against Los Angeles FC on 21/2, before heading back to Puerto Rico to fulfill the rescheduled friendly.

Messi played in the Barcelona SC 2-2 Inter Miami friendly in Ecuador on 7/2, before exiting due to injury. *Photo: Inter Miami*

"Hello everyone, I want to send this message to the people of Puerto Rico and those planning to attend the training session and match," Messi stated in a video posted by Inter Miami on 11/2. "In the last match, I suffered a muscle strain. Consequently, together with the organizers and Inter Miami, we decided to postpone the game. Sending you all a hug and thank you for the constant love you show us."

Messi sustained a left hamstring strain during the friendly against Barcelona SC in Ecuador on 7/2. The 38-year-old forward has not yet resumed training.

In 2024, Inter Miami experienced significant backlash when Messi missed a friendly match in Hong Kong due to injury. Upon discovering the Argentine star would not play, local fans reacted angrily, damaging the reputation of those involved. The organizers subsequently had to issue partial ticket refunds.

Inter Miami recently concluded their pre-season tour ahead of the 2026 season. Their tour included a 0-3 loss to Alianza Lima in Peru, a 2-1 victory over Atletico Nacional in Colombia, and a 2-2 draw with Barcelona SC in Ecuador. Messi scored one goal in the final match.

Last season, Inter Miami secured their first MLS Cup in franchise history. Messi personally contributed 43 goals across all competitions, earning both the Best Player award and the MLS Golden Boot.

Thanh Quy (according to ESPN)