There was a brief moment of silence inside Chase Stadium on Sunday evening when Lionel Messi reached for the back of his left leg and signalled towards the bench.
With the World Cup now just weeks away, even the slightest sign of discomfort involving Argentina’s captain is enough to unsettle fans across the globe.
The 38-year-old forward was substituted in the 73rd minute during Inter Miami’s Major League Soccer clash against the Philadelphia Union after appearing uncomfortable on the rain-soaked pitch in Miami. Messi walked off without assistance and headed directly down the tunnel, easing immediate fears of a serious injury.
Inter Miami coach Guillermo Hoyos later played down concerns, suggesting the decision was made out of caution rather than necessity.
“As far as I know, we don’t have a medical report yet, but he was really fatigued,” Hoyos told reporters after the match.
“The pitch was heavy because of the weather and, when there is any doubt, you avoid taking unnecessary risks.”
The timing of the incident could hardly be more sensitive. Argentina are preparing to defend the World Cup title they won in Qatar in 2022, with their squad expected to be announced next week ahead of the tournament in the United States, Canada and Mexico.
Although Messi has not officially confirmed he will feature, few expect him to miss what could become a record-equalling sixth World Cup appearance. Argentina open their campaign against Algeria on June 16.
Since joining Inter Miami in 2023, Messi has carefully balanced club football with the demands of international competition. The Argentine has remained influential in Major League Soccer, but recurring muscle concerns particularly involving his hamstrings, have occasionally interrupted his playing schedule.
Those close to the club insist Sunday’s substitution was precautionary. Still, with the World Cup approaching, every movement involving football’s biggest star is being watched closely. For now, Argentina supporters can only wait for the medical update and hope the scare proves to be nothing more than a wet night and tired legs.
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