Inter Miami have allayed fears over Lionel Messi's fitness after revealing the Argentine superstar was withdrawn from Sunday's win over Philadelphia Union due to muscle fatigue, not a serious injury. Medical tests confirmed an overload in his left hamstring but no structural damage, offering a collective sigh of relief ahead of the impending World Cup break.
The 38-year-old had sparkled in the 6-4 victory at Chase Stadium, setting up two first-half goals to underline his enduring class. But in the 73rd minute, after taking a free-kick, Messi clutched his leg and was immediately replaced. He walked down the tunnel unaided, yet the sight of the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner nursing a potential injury sent alarm bells through the football world.
Inter Miami moved quickly to calm the storm. A club statement on Monday read that clinical examinations pointed to "an overload associated with muscle fatigue" and that his return to physical activity would be guided by his progress. This cautious approach mirrors the careful management Messi has received since joining the MLS side in 2023, a strategy designed to preserve his longevity.
Coach Guillermo Hoyos reinforced that message post-match. "He really was fatigued," Hoyos explained. "He was tired; the pitch was heavy and when in doubt, the standard approach is always to ensure you don't take any risks." The heavy surface, a common issue in American venues during humid months, likely contributed to the strain, but the decision to withdraw him was precautionary.
The incident reignites familiar concerns. Since arriving in Florida, Messi has navigated sporadic hamstring issues that forced him to miss chunks of both the 2023 and 2024 campaigns. Despite that, his numbers this term remain breathtaking: 12 goals and eight assists in just 14 league appearances, putting him only one off the pace in both categories. Last season, he tallied a league-leading 29 goals and 19 assists in 28 games, rewriting the MLS record books.
Crucially, this latest setback comes with impeccable timing. The World Cup break now pauses domestic action, granting Messi a window to recuperate without missing competitive minutes for his club. Argentina are expected to name their squad next week, with the defending champions opening their campaign against Algeria on 16 June. Messi is widely tipped to equal the record for most World Cup appearances by starting his sixth tournament, a milestone that would cement his legacy.
For Inter Miami, the diagnosis is a major boost. With the team chasing silverware and relying heavily on their captain's genius, any extended absence could have derailed their momentum. The Herons will now tailor a recovery programme that prioritises full fitness over rushed returns, a luxury afforded by the break. It also allows Messi to arrive fresh for what many believe will be his final World Cup bow.
Argentina's medical staff will be in close contact with their counterparts in Miami. While no formal confirmation has come from Messi about his World Cup participation, the expectation is that he will lead his nation in its title defence. His form this season suggests he remains pivotal, but at 38, managing his body is a non-negotiable part of the process.
Analysing the broader picture, muscle fatigue at this stage of a gruelling campaign is rarely shocking. The congested MLS calendar, combined with international duties, taxes even the fittest athletes. Messi's case is no exception. What matters is the swift and transparent response from the club, ensuring fans and stakeholders are not left in the dark.
If there is a lesson, it is that Inter Miami have learned from past missteps. Earlier in Messi's tenure, his hamstring problems led to a costly stint on the sidelines that saw the team falter. Now, with a mature support system in place, they appear better equipped to handle these scares. The cautious mantra "no risks" is no longer just a soundbite but a procedural reality.
Looking ahead, all eyes will be on Messi's recovery. The next update from Miami likely won't come until after the break, but the initial signs are positive. For Argentina, the prospect of a fully fit Messi is the fuel for their World Cup ambitions. For MLS, it means the league's biggest draw will be back to continue his assault on records. For now, the football world can exhale.
Based on reporting from BBC Sport.
