After taking a free-kick in the 70th minute, Messi clutched his left thigh with a look of discomfort. Three minutes later, he asked to leave the field and walked into the locker room himself. This incident occurred during Inter Miami's match against Philadelphia Union at NU Stadium.

The injury immediately sparked concerns about Messi's participation in the World Cup 2026, which is scheduled to open on 11/6. However, Gaston Edul, a journalist covering the Argentina national team, suggested that Messi may only have a muscle strain. Edul indicated that the early substitution was a precautionary measure to mitigate further risk.

Inter Miami Coach Guillermo Hoyos offered reassurance, stating he did not believe the issue was serious. "Perhaps he was just too tired," Hoyos commented after the game. He attributed Messi's fatigue and the hard playing surface as contributing factors, emphasizing that it was prudent to avoid further risk in such situations.

Messi (pink shirt) dribbles during Inter Miami's 6-4 win over Philadelphia Union on MLS matchday 15 on 24/5. Photo: AP

Before his departure, Messi had already made a significant impact, contributing two assists to Inter Miami's 6-4 victory. This brought his career assist total to 414. His goal tally remains at 910, 63 goals behind Cristiano Ronaldo.

While Messi has not yet confirmed his availability for the World Cup 2026, Coach Lionel Scaloni has included him in Argentina's preliminary 55-man squad. The final 26-man roster is expected to be announced by the 30/5 deadline.

Competing in the World Cup at 38 years old presents a significant challenge. Messi has previously considered his age, the intensity of top-tier football, and the potential to make way for younger talent. Despite these considerations, he continues to receive widespread global fan support.

Should he participate in the tournament, co-hosted by the US, Mexico, and Canada, Messi would set a record with six World Cup appearances. Cristiano Ronaldo has also reached this milestone, confirming his continued play for the Portugal national team.

Argentina is set to compete in Group J, with matches against Algeria on 16/6, Austria on 22/6, and Jordan on 27/6. The World Cup 2026 will feature 48 teams divided into 12 groups. The top two teams from each group and the eight best third-placed teams will advance to the round of 16.

Thanh Quy (via X)